Fire in Yellowstone National Park reaches 5 square miles

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) - A fire in Wyoming’s Yellowstone National Park has reached up to 5 square miles (13 square kilometers), park officials said.

The fire has continued to grow despite recent colder, wetter weather in Yellowstone, the park said in a statement on Wednesday. Hard frosts at night have killed grasses and other plants. As the dead vegetation dries, the fire is expected to grow, officials said.

The Lone Star Fire started on Aug. 22, KTWO-AM reported. It is expected to be contained by Oct. 30, officials said.

Firefighters are cutting down trees and heavy vegetation in the area to protect power lines, historic buildings and communication equipment.