Wildfire closes route into Yosemite National Park

OAKHURST - A Central California wildfire has closed the southern roadway leading into Yosemite National Park.

Officials with the Sierra National Forest said Tuesday they blocked traffic on Highway 41, but other entryways into Yosemite remain open.

Officials also ordered the evacuation of Sugar Pine, a small community of homes and vacation rentals threatened by the nearby flames.

Firefighters say the wildfire has burned 60 acres (24 hectares) of steep terrain covered by pine trees and brush.

The fire is under investigation as crews battle flames from the ground and air.

Another fire that started in mid-August inside Yosemite's boundaries near the small community of Wawona is still burning, though officials have lifted evacuation orders for residents there.

Firefighters say they're on guard as a heatwave blankets much of California.