Sequoia park KNP Complex Fire still growing. Latest on threat to Three Rivers

The lightning-sparked KNP Complex Fire raging through Sequoia National Park continued to spread Friday, with total acres burned reaching 11,365.

The fire, which erupted Sept. 9, is comprised of the Paradise Fire and the Colony Fire.

Residents of nearby Three Rivers, partially evacuated earlier this week, were called to a community meeting Friday at 7 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Building for an update on conditions. Officials from the Southern Area Incident team said Friday morning that there were no immediate evacuation orders for the town, but residents were still under an evacuation warning, and should be ready if conditions suddenly change.

The entire park is closed to the public, while nearby Kings Canyon National Park remains open. However, air quality is “seriously affected” in Three Rivers, according to fire officials, with particulate matter readings in the hazardous range.

Officials warned that the fire area is a “No Drone Zone.” According to Incident Commander Mark Morales, “If you fly, we can’t.” He said firefighting aircraft are grounded whenever a drone is spotted in the area.

This story was originally published September 17, 2021 at 10:33 AM with the headline "Sequoia park KNP Complex Fire still growing. Latest on threat to Three Rivers."