Tulare sheriff removes evacuation orders for Sequoia wildfire as containment increases
The Tulare County sSheriff Wednesday called off all evacuation orders and warnings for the Windy Fire, as cooler weather and firefighting efforts increased containment for both wildfires burning in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park.
The Windy Fire, burning near Camp Nelson, was reported to be 88% contained after burning 97,554 acres.
The KNP Complex Fire, which was endangering groves of giant sequoias, was reported 40% contained, having consumed 87,786 acres.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park remains closed.
The sheriff said all evacuation orders would be lifted by noon Wednesday.
The order is in effect for the communities of Mountain Aire, Rogers Camp, Upper and Lower Peppermint, Camp Whitsett, R Ranch, Johnsondale, Sugerloaf, Sugarloaf Sawmill, Sugarloaf Mountain Park, Ponderosa, Idlewild, Balance Rock, Poso Park, Quaking Aspen, Camp Nelson, Pierpoint, Coy Flat, Cedar Slope, Alpine Village, Sequoia Crest, McNally’s, California Hot Springs, Posey, Panoramic Heights, and Gold Ledge.
However, the national forest in the area remains closed because of the continuing fire threat. Roadblocks will remain at M107 at Aspen, M99 at Lloyd Meadow, and M50 at Parker Meadow.
Some evacuation orders remain in for KNP fire
On Wednesday afternoon, the Tulare County sheriff downgraded evacuation warnings for the communities of Wilsonia and Grant Grove Village, which had been affected by the KNP Complex.
Only residents and business owners are permitted to return, with proper documentation. This includes a name and an address within the impacted area.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park and Forest remains closed and only authorized forest, park and fire personnel are allowed inside the closed areas at this time.
Generals Highway remains closes and Upper Mineral King, Cabin Cove, Silver City and Mineral King all remain under an evacuation order, the sheriff said.
This story was originally published October 13, 2021 at 9:43 AM.