KNP Complex Fire continues to grow, smoky skies settle over Central CA

TULARE COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- Smoky skies settled over Central California on Wednesday as firefighters continued their battle against the growing KNP Complex Fire in the Sequoia National Forest.

The wildfire which was sparked by lightning strikes is now 7,039 acres with 0% containment, U.S. Forest officials reported.

Health officials issued an air quality advisory on Tuesday for the Central Valley as the KNP Complex Fire burns in the Sequoia National Park.

The Valley Air District warned residents in Fresno, Kings, Tulare and Kern counties will be impacted by smoke. They said residents should limit their time outdoors to reduce exposure to particulate matter.

Officials said the Paradise Fire spread to the west, prompting mandatory evacuations.

Evacuation orders remain in effect for the community of Sycamore and all of Three Rivers from Mineral King Drive to the Sequoia National Park Boundary. That includes structures along both sides of Highway 198.

It also includes Oak Grove Bridge down to Highway 198, including Sierra King Driver, Crest Lane, Hammond Drive and Oak Grove Drive.

Evacuation warnings are also in effect for Old Three Rivers Road and Blossom Drive to South Fork Drive up to Highway 198 to Mineral King Drive, including North Fork Drive.

Warnings are also in place for all structures within the Edison Dr., Cherokee Oaks Dr., Crystal Dr., Grouse Dr., Elk Dr., Meadow Dr., Quail Dr., Oak Ridge Dr., Ferndale Dr., Terminus Dr., Pierce Dr., Red Tail Lane.

These new orders and warnings were issued in addition to the existing evacuation orders for communities along Mineral King Road.

An evacuation center has been set up at the Exeter Memorial Building located at 324 N. Kaweah Ave. in Exeter.

The Red Cross is set up and ready to provide food, water and resources to those who have been displaced by the fire.

Anyone in need of assistance can call 211. For more information on Tulare County evacuation orders and warnings, click here.