LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Firefighters say monsoonal weather has significantly aided in the containment of the York Fire on Wednesday morning.
However, officials said they are expecting the monsoon weather to leave and warmer and dryer weather coming after.
The fire is still burning at 94,009 acres, and about 8,580 acres have crossed into Clark County.
According to the Bureau of Land Management, the fire is now up to 34% contained, though firefighters are remaining vigilant as the recent rainfall patterns clear.
"Firefighters are remaining vigilant and remain prepared as a drying trend is on the horizon," the release noted. "While the rain has been beneficial, it has not eliminated the threat of fire weather caused by dry fuels."
Officials tell Channel 13 that a main concern is how high winds passing through the valley may allow the fire to continue to spread rapidly.
The fire originated on July 28 in the New York Mountain Range on a "private property" in the Mojave Desert National Preserve. The initial blaze causes major impacts on traffic due to low visibility from heavy smoke, though meteorologists say air quality in Las Vegas has significantly improved. However, high winds still pose a risk of blowing more dust into the area.
Officials said they are also protecting cultural history, wildlife and rare plants.
Currently, 405 fire personnel have been assigned to fire suppression efforts in the area.
The National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service, California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, San Bernardino County Fire Protection District, and Clark County Fire united to battle the fire.
For traffic closures, Ivanpah Rd. between Morning Star Mine Rd and Cedar Canyon Rd., as well as all of Hart Mine Rd. are closed due to hazardous wildfire conditions and fire suppression operations.
