Old North News

The North Carolina Forest Service has reiterated the enforcement of a statewide ban on open burning due to critical fire weather conditions affecting most of the state. The situation is characterized by strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures, which are contributing to severe fire behavior.

Forest Service personnel are actively engaged in initial attack responses for several large wildfires across multiple districts. They are also dealing with reports of illegal fires despite the ongoing burn ban. The use of outdoor fires during this period is prohibited by law and poses additional challenges to response efforts.

Several significant fires are currently active in North Carolina:

- In Polk County, the Black Cove Fire covers 1,239 acres with no containment; the Deep Woods Fire spans 1,102 acres with no containment; and the Fish Hook Fire is at 152 acres and 50% contained. Containment efforts are hindered by debris and rugged terrain.

- Other notable fires include the Old Hwy 16 #1 Fire in Wilkes County (200 acres, 50% contained), Iron Circle Fire in Burke County (160 acres, 50% contained), and Caleb Lane Fire in Caldwell County (50 acres, no containment).

- District 10 personnel are addressing the Goinstown Road Fire near Stokes/Rockingham County line (50 acres, no containment).

- In Caswell County, efforts continue on the Anderson Road Fire (20-30 acres, 50% contained).

Since March 1st, there have been 1,040 wildfires on state and private lands within North Carolina. It is noted that human activities cause ninety-nine percent of these wildfires.

The burn ban was implemented effective from March 21st at 8 a.m., canceling all burning permits statewide until further notice.

Additionally, flying drones near or over wildfires is illegal as they pose threats to firefighting aircraft operations. Such disruptions endanger pilots' safety and can increase risks to firefighters and nearby properties.

For updates on wildfire activity across North Carolina or to subscribe for alerts from the N.C. Forest Service regarding wildfires and burn bans visit their official website.