Fires Continue To Burn In Western North Carolina

Justin Pryor,

CHARLOTTE, NC — Crews from multiple states are continuing efforts to battle nearly 20 wildfires burning throughout western North Carolina.

Governor McCrory said today that so far the fires have burned more than 46,000 acres and threatened more than 1,800 structures. The damage estimates are now over $15 million, according to reports.

“Firefighters and emergency management personnel continue facing difficult conditions throughout western North Carolina,” said Governor McCrory. “We are working with local and federal partners to provide any available support to help protect our first responders, citizens and property.”

No cause has been given for what started the fires, but the governor says the investigation is ongoing. Due to dry conditions throughout the region, officials also say the fires could go on for several months.

Air quality warnings are continuing to go out across portions of North and South Carolina. Evacuations have also been issued in several counties, including Rutherford and Henderson Counties.

In a release put out by Governor McCrory’s office, details were included on the major fires burning in North Carolina.

Tellico Fire – Macon/Swain counties:

  • Approximately 13,700 acres burned to date – 68% contained
  • 464 active personnel

Party Rock – Rutherford County:

  • Approximately 4,480 acres burned – 19% contained
  • 323 active personnel

Chestnut Knob – Burke County:

  • Approximately 4,600 acres burned – 30% contained
  • 205 active personnel

Boteler – Clay County:

  • Approximately 8,967 acres burned – 43% contained
  • 366 active personnel

Dicks Creek – Jackson County:

  • Approximately 730 acres burned – 94% contained
  • 7 active personnel

Knob – Macon County:

  • Approximately 1,130 acres burned – 95% contained
  • 4 active personnel

Maple Springs & Old Roughy – Graham County:

  • Maple Springs: approximately 7,515 acres burned – 15% contained
  • Old Roughy: approximately 657 acres burned – 80% contained
  • 346 active personnel

Muskrat Valley – Macon County:

  • Approximately 103 acres burned – 90% contained
  • 50 active personnel

Here in Charlotte, fire officials have canceled burning permits and put a ban on all outdoor burning until further notice. Other area fire departments have issued similar restrictions like Huntersville, who issued a ban on outdoor burning, and Concord, who issued a voluntary ban on outdoor burning.

To get full updates on air quality alerts and fire restrictions in your area, click here.