Wildfires are still burning across Western North Carolina and the South Carolina Upstate as of Friday, March 28, with some fires now in their second week.
Thousands of acres have been destroyed, and hundreds of firefighters from across the country are working around the clock to control the flames.
Evacuations have been ordered, and some homes have been lost. Only one injury has been reported so far.
Largest Fire in the Region
The Table Rock Fire in Pickens County, South Carolina, remains the largest fire in the region. It crossed into Transylvania County, North Carolina, on Thursday, March 27.
Other major fires burning in North Carolina include the Deep Woods and Black Cove fires in Polk County, the Alarka Fire in Swain County, and the Rattlesnake Branch Fire in Haywood County.
Weather Conditions Worsening
Weather conditions on Friday are ideal for fire growth, with low humidity and increasing winds.
Burn bans are in place across both North Carolina and South Carolina. Air quality is poor in many North Carolina counties.
Fire Containment Explained
Earlier on Friday, the Black Cove Fire in Polk County was reported to be 17% contained. Chief Dennis Fagnant from the West Buncombe Fire Department explained that containment percentages reflect how much of the fire’s perimeter is under control using fire lines and other tactics.
However, even with high containment, fires can still burn within the perimeter. A 100% containment means the fire is unlikely to spread further, but it does not mean it’s extinguished.
Table Rock Fire Expanding
During a press conference on Friday morning, Transylvania County Manager Jamie Laughter said that the Table Rock Fire is primarily located along the state border with South Carolina.
A spot fire was reported at Busted Rock, but the fire remains within state forest land, about half a mile from any structures. More evacuations may be ordered depending on weather conditions.
Black Cove Complex Fires Overview
The Black Cove Complex fires in Polk and Henderson counties are among the most critical fire situations in the country. Over 500 firefighters are working to contain these fires:
- Black Cove Fire – Covers 3,288 acres and is 17% contained. Firefighters focused on securing the southwest portion near Skyland Acres overnight. The fire started on Wednesday, March 19, due to a downed power line.
- Deep Woods Fire – Spanning 3,373 acres and 30% contained. Firefighters used bulldozers and hand lines to protect homes near Green River Road. The fire started on March 19, but the cause remains under investigation.
- Fish Hook Fire – Covers 199 acres and is 95% contained. Firefighters expect full containment soon. The fire started on March 20 due to a downed power line.
New Fire in Buncombe County
A new fire broke out in Garren Creek in Buncombe County on Friday afternoon.
Crews are responding to the fire near Old Fort Road and Echo Lake. The fire’s size and cause are still under investigation.
Red Flag Warnings Issued
Red Flag Warnings are in effect across Western North Carolina due to dry conditions and strong winds.
Gusts of 20–25 mph, with peaks up to 30 mph along ridgetops, are expected throughout the day.
Poor Air Quality
Air quality alerts have been issued for several counties:
- Code Purple – Henderson and Transylvania counties have very unhealthy air quality. Sensitive groups and the general public are advised to stay indoors.
- Code Red – Buncombe, Polk, and Swain counties have unhealthy air for everyone, with recommendations to limit outdoor activity.
- Code Orange – Macon and Rutherford counties have air that is unhealthy for sensitive groups.
Headwaters State Forest Closed
Headwaters State Forest in Transylvania County is closed due to wildfire activity.
Officials say the closure will remain in place until further notice to allow firefighters safe access to the area.
Shining Rock Wilderness Closure
The Rattlesnake Branch Fire, which began on March 26 in Haywood County, has spread into Pisgah National Forest.
The U.S. Forest Service has closed the Shining Rock Wilderness area, including several popular trailheads.
Other Fire Updates
- Freedom Farm Fire – Now at 130 acres with 60% containment. Firefighters continue to manage the fire, but no structures are currently at risk.
- Sylva Fire – The fire near Sylva is 94 acres in size, and its perimeter is secure. Burnout operations have been successful, and the fire is no longer considered a threat.
Table Rock Fire Nearly Doubles in Size
The Table Rock Fire grew to 8,679 acres on Thursday, nearly double its size from earlier in the day.
The fire expanded primarily on the northern and western sides near the North Carolina state line.
The Persimmon Ridge Fire in South Carolina also grew slightly to 1,992 acres due to controlled burnouts conducted by fire crews.
Disclaimer- Our team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and maintain its credibility. We are committed to providing honest and reliable content for our readers.