KNP Complex fires update: Rain aids firefighting, some evacuated areas allowed to return
Rain weakened the KNP Complex fires, and residents were allowed to return to several evacuated communities Saturday.
On Friday, storms brought rain to the most of the fire, with some areas getting three-tenths of an inch. That significantly decreased fire activity, limiting it to “creeping” and “smoldering” instead of rapidly burning, fire officials said in an online update.
The wet weather is expected to continue to slow the fire Saturday.
Containment remained at 20% and the fire has burned 87,145 acres since it was started by lightning Sept. 10. The fire is burning in two areas in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park and Sequoia National Forest.
Flames has chewed through at least 15 giant sequoia groves and may have destroyed hundreds of the ancient trees.
In northern part of the fire, firefighters are continuing to protect groves of giant sequoias and buildings in and around Wilsonia.
The fire is burning in steep terrain and the dangers of rocks and snags falling downhill are preventing firefighters from directly attacking the fire along the east side of Generals Highway., authorities said.
In the southern portion of the fire near Mineral King Road and Three Rivers, crews are making progress containing the fire, particularly on its western edge.
Firefighters are also preparing Atwell Grove, home to many giant sequoias, in case the fire moves east.
Evacuation downgrade
In Kings Canyon National Park, mandatory evacuation were downgraded to warnings for the communities of Grant Grove Village and Wilsonia, effective at 9 a.m. Saturday.
As of noon Saturday, residents and business owners can return to evacuated areas near Three Rivers, including Hammond Drive, Crest Lane, Sierra King Drive along Mineral King Road, and Highway 198 (Sierra Drive) from Mineral King Road, north to the entrance of Sequoia National Park.
This does not include Sycamore Drive, which is still under an evacuation order.
The downgrade means residents and business owners are allowed back in to the communities, but the area remains under an threat. People should be ready to leave at any time, officials cautioned, and the national parks remain closed to visitors.
Residents must show documents proving where they live to return home.
This story was originally published October 9, 2021 at 10:25 AM.
