Old North News

Additional resources have arrived to assist firefighting efforts in dealing with the Black Cove Complex in Polk and Henderson counties, North Carolina. Currently, 458 personnel are engaged from both North Carolina and other states nationwide. The recent decline in available resources is due to personnel being redirected to other fires within North Carolina.

A Red Flag Warning for the fire region, indicating heightened fire potential due to weather conditions, was recently lifted. The National Weather Service had issued this warning due to increased temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds. A forecast predicts possible rain ahead of a cold front expected early next week.

Supporting the firefighting efforts are North Carolina fire departments, with some coming from regions like Swansboro located nearly six hours away. Assistance has also been extended by out-of-state resources from states including Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Mississippi, Montana, New York, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, and Wyoming.

The Black Cove Fire currently covers 3,410 acres and is 23% contained. Situated approximately 2 miles northeast of Saluda in the Green River Gorge, the fire remains intense, driven by shifting winds and dry weather. It is prioritized to secure the southwest edge and protect homes in the Skyland Acres area. In efforts to bolster control, strategic firing operations are being conducted, and containment measures are underway. First reported on March 19, the fire's cause has been identified as a downed powerline.

Meanwhile, the Deep Woods Fire encompasses 3,797 acres with a containment level of 32%. Located about 5 miles northwest of Columbus, near the Green River Gorge and Holbert Cove community, the fire's northwestern section shows signs of improved security. Firefighters are working on containment lines as strategic firing operations proceed. Like the Black Cove Fire, this was reported on March 19, though its cause remains under investigation.

The Fish Hook Fire, measured at 199 acres and 95% contained, is positioned about 5 miles northwest of Mill Spring, near Lake Adger. Firefighters are managing containment effectively, with expectations for full control. This fire, reported on March 20, was also caused by a downed powerline.

In response to the fires, a community meeting was held by the city of Saluda, offering updates. A recorded session is available online for those unable to attend. Evacuation statuses stay under review according to fire activity directives, and public notices are provided on the Polk and Henderson County websites.

Additionally, a Temporary Flight Restriction exists up to 5,500 feet across the area to ensure safety for firefighting aircraft operations. Governor Josh Stein declared a State of Emergency on March 26, boosting the state's response capabilities.

A statewide ban on open burning, effective since March 21, is enforced, halting new permits until further notice.

Residents can stay informed about wildfire activities across the state through the North Carolina Wildfire Public Viewer, and updates from the N.C. Forest Service are available through an online subscription service.