A wildfire burning just outside Grand Canyon National Park's North Rim on Saturday prompted closure of the rim to the public.
The Mangum Fire, estimated at roughly 6,000 acres, was burning in the Kaibab National Forest. Saturday morning it was estimated that containment lines had been gouged around just 2 percent of the fire.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. High southwest winds and low relative humidity have increased fire activity over the last several days and is predicted to continue through the weekend, a park release said. The fire is being suppressed utilizing a full suppression strategy.
Smoke from the Mangum Fire is visible from both the North and South Rims of the park. Visitors may see increased smoke or haze filling the canyon. For more information about air quality at Grand Canyon National Park visit, www.airnow.gov.
Stage 2 fire restrictions remain in place for Grand Canyon National Park, which include no open fires including campfires, charcoal, or wood fueled flames. Gasoline or propane stoves remain allowed if operated in an area clear of vegetation. Smoking is prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
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