Steve Troxler, Commissioner | North Carolina Department Of Agriculture & Consumer Services
Steve Troxler, Commissioner | North Carolina Department Of Agriculture & Consumer Services
As of the latest update, 493 personnel are working on the Black Cove Complex wildfires in Polk and Henderson counties, with additional resources continuing to arrive. Firefighting crews have been mobilized from across North Carolina and 14 other states to assist in the efforts.
Weather conditions have improved, bringing humid and calm weather which has reduced fire activity. Suppression and repair operations are being carried out, including repairing bulldozer lines and installing water bars.
In detail, the Black Cove Fire has reached 3,500 acres and is 35% contained. It's burning in timber approximately 2 miles northeast of Saluda in the Green River Gorge. "Crews conducted strategic firing operations this afternoon along the Camp Creek area of the fire," and "weather conditions have been favorable, allowing for a safe and effective firing operation." This fire originated from a downed powerline on March 19.
The Deep Woods Fire spans 3,970 acres and is 32% contained. It is burning approximately 5 miles northwest of Columbus. "Following last night’s successful firing operation, crews were able to secure containment lines in the Holbert Cove and Cove Mountain areas." The fire has been burning since March 19, though its cause is still under investigation.
The Fish Hook Fire is now fully contained, having burned 199 acres near Lake Adger. It was also caused by a downed powerline and was first reported on March 20.
Evacuation levels are being reassessed based on fire activity. Updated evacuation notices are available on the Polk County and Henderson County websites. A Temporary Flight Restriction is in place to ensure safety for firefighting aircraft. "Drones can pose a serious threat to pilot and public safety."
Governor Josh Stein declared a State of Emergency on March 26 to bolster the state's response capacity. Additionally, a statewide ban on open burning took effect on March 21 and remains in effect.
For further information and updates, the North Carolina Wildfire Public Viewer is available online. Additionally, subscriptions for updates from the N.C. Forest Service can be obtained.
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