Stay up to date with WRAL’s Forest fire news and reporting coverage
All fire departments urge the public to avoid burning outdoors until further notice. The combination of gusty winds (we're expected to feel winds up to 30 mph), dry conditions and low humidity, on top of severe drought conditions, can stir rapid fire growth.
The aftermath of Hurricane Helene is still impacting parts of western North Carolina. Philip Jackson with the North Carolina Forest Service shared how the storms debris are further fueling the fire and posing a threat to the firefighters' accessibility.
Valentina Aguilar, who owned a home near the fire, said she is concerned the fire will spark again.
Leslie Moreno, WRAL reporter