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Contact: Sasha Travaglio
Firefighters from multiple agencies continue working to contain the Geology Fire in Joshua Tree National Park, working toward full suppression. The Geology Fire has burned 1,088 acres and is 30% contained.
The fire ignited around 4 PM on Saturday, June 10, 2023, and quickly spread through low vegetation. Fire activity slowed overnight due to favorable conditions and remained within its footprint. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Firefighters are attacking the fire directly and building containment lines. They are working to minimize resource damage, particularly to sensitive species like the Joshua tree and the desert tortoise. Weather conditions are anticipated to remain favorable, with humidity between 30-71%, gusty winds up to 17 MPH, and scattered showers.
Responding agencies include the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, and Bureau of Indian Affairs. Equipment assigned to the fire include 8 fire engines, 2 helicopters, 2 heavy air tanks, 1 air attack unit, and 2 fire engines.
Geology Tour Road and Berdoo Canyon Road remain closed to the public. Pinkham Canyon and Fried Liver Wash areas are closed to hiking. Backcountry camping is closed in the Lost Horse, Pleasant Valley, Twin Tanks, and Hexie Mountain zones. All other areas of the park are open for normal visitor use.
Drone use is prohibited inside the park. Drones operated outside the park are not allowed near the Geology Fire. Any drone in the sky risks the safety and effectiveness of incident air operations.
Park visitors should maintain situational awareness, recreate cautiously, and expect smoke during their visit.
Last updated: June 11, 2023