Crews work to stop KNP Complex Fire's progression, Sequoia National Park closed
The complex, which is comprised of three wildfires sparked by lightning, has burned more than 8,900 acres and is 0% contained.
TULARE COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- Crews are ramping up their efforts to stop the KNP Complex Fire's progression and save the giant sequoias in the Sequoia National Forest.
The complex, which is comprised of three wildfires sparked by lightning, has burned more than 9,000 acres and is 0% contained.
Sequoia National Park is closed to the public, and employees who live inside the park have been evacuated. Officials say Kings Canyon National Park remains open, but smoke could pose an impact on the air quality.
Smoke created a hazy blanket over the skies in the southern parts of the Central Valley.
Earlier this week, the Tulare County Sheriff's Office issued evacuations for several communities within the forest after the Paradise Fire spread west.
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.
