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Fire blocking Yellowstone National Park entrance smolders on

Posted at 12:07 PM, Aug 28, 2016
and last updated 2016-08-28 15:07:35-04

Firefighters working on steep hillsides are chopping down trees and searching for hotspots as they battle a wildfire that's blocking an entrance to Yellowstone National Park.

Wildfire managers say their top priority is clearing a highway in the area and protecting campgrounds, buildings and archaeological sites. They're also making sure there are no flare-ups or falling trees that could cause injuries or death.

Strong winds blew down several trees Saturday, blocking some roads. Travelers have been warned to be cautious on area roads that are still open around the park.

The fire that began last month is blocking Yellowstone's south entrance near Jackson, Wyoming. The park also has entrance stations in Montana and near Cody, Wyoming.

Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks and Bridger Teton National Forest all have area closures in effect, but both national parks are open to visitors.