[UPDATE 12:24 a.m.] Wildfire Burning South of Willow Creek on Friday Ridge

About 2:40 p.m., firefighters began attempting to locate a fire reported in the Friday Ridge area roughly about one and a half miles south of Willow Creek as the crow flies.

The first patrol of firefighters located what they are calling the Knob Incident just before 4 p.m.

Please remember that this story is unfolding. Information is being reported as we gather it. However, some of the information coming from witnesses and initial official reports could be wrong. We will do our best to get the facts but, in the case that something is inaccurate, we will update with correct information as soon as we can.

UPDATE 7:10 p.m.:

According to Peggi Lawrence, Public Affairs Specialist for Six Rivers National Forest speaking about 6:30 p.m. they had word from about two hours ago that said the fire was about 20 acres.

However, right about the same time the Northern California Geographic Coordination Center reported, the Knob Fire was 40 acres burning in timber and brush and 0% contained. They added, “Active fire behavior with structures threatened. Threats also include private timberland and critical wildlife habitat. Aircraft use is limited due to smoke.”

We’re gathering information. Please feel free to send us what you know at [email protected].

UPDATE 9:26 p.m.:

According to the scanner, deputies from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Department are going house to house starting evacuations at Butterfly Creek Road. We believe they are headed south towards China Creek Cottages.

UPDATE 9:50 p.m.: Evacuation Orders Issued by the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Department for Some Areas of Willow Creek

UPDATE 10:13 p.m.: This photo was taken on Peach Tree Lane in Willow Creek and provided by a reader.

UPDATE 10:30 p.m.: Large animals can be evacuated to the Hoopa Rodeo grounds. “Large animals: horses, cattle, are welcome at the Hoopa Rodeo Grounds. There are plenty of paneled pens, water and feed there. We have foster homes prepared for sheep and goats, but you should call ahead to arrange. We can haul for you if needed. Animals we can’t house include cats, dogs, fowl, however we’re happy to help find fosters, crates, feed, if needed. My cell is (707)492-2851. My ringer is on high. I’m on standby. Call/text if needed.” https://www.facebook.com/groups/515735191896077?multi_permalinks=2261904443945801&hoisted_section_header_type=recently_seen

Update 10:42 p.m.: According to the Shasta Trinity National Forest Service,

Firefighters from the Six Rivers and Shasta-Trinity national forests are battling an emerging wildfire near Willow Creek that is threatening approximately 50 structures.

The fire is about 1 mile south of Willow Creek in the China Creek drainage. The latest report estimated the #KnobFire at 40 acres with northwest winds pushing it south toward China Creek.

A mandatory evacuation order has been issued by the Humboldt County Sheriff on Highway 299 from Gypo Lane to Butterfly Creek Road. A evacuation warning has been issued from Butterfly Creek Road to Panther Road and from Gypo Lane east to Friday Ridge Road.

An evacuation center has been set up at the Willow Creek Bible Church at 39 Brannan Mountain Road. Multiple resources from the #McCashFire and #MonumentFire have been diverted to assist with the initial attack, including the Redding Hotshot Crew, eight engine crews, a bulldozer and a water tender. Five helicopters were used to drop water on and around the fire during initial attack but can no longer fly due to darkness.

UPDATE 11:02 p.m.: Humboldt County Sheriff Reiterates Evacuation Orders and Issues New Evacuation Warnings for the Knob Fire Near Willow Creek

UPDATE 11:27 p.m.: Information from the Humboldt County OES (Office of Emergency Services):

Go here or click on the map for a more precise image.

UPDATE 11:55 p.m.: Please note that Google Maps has incorrectly placed the evacuation center. According to a resident, Colleen Stevens, “NOTE! The evacuation shelter for Red Cross is incorrectly marked on this link. It is based on Google Maps and GPS directions which are incorrect… despite my MANY attempts to correct it…”