While there are currently no state-issued burn bans in North Carolina, current conditions in parts of central and western North Carolina have a higher wildfire danger than normal.
On Sunday, the North Carolina Forest Service (NCFS) issued a red flag warning for the state. A red flag warning means weather conditions such as strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures make fires much more likely. As of Wednesday morning, the N.C. State Climate Climate Office said fire danger has decreased to moderate for far western North Carolina but remains high in Madison, Henderson, Buncombe, Transylvania, Polk, Rutherford, McDowell, Mitchell counties and much of the Piedmont.
The NCFS said being prepared for wildfires is even more important this year in Western North Carolina because of the more than 800,000 acres of downed timber left by Hurricane Helene across the region. This timber could cause fires to spread faster.
How often are there wildfires in NC?
North Carolina sees more than 4,500 wildfires annually, with nearly 99% caused by human activities like backyard burning and campfires, according to NCFS.
There have been 5,659 wildfires in the state as of Sunday, Nov. 16. On Sunday, there were 102 active fires in the state.
Are there active fires in WNC?
The N.C. Forest Service’s Wildfire Map shows one active three-acre fire in Madison County that was 90% contained on Monday, Nov. 17.
N.C. Forest Service Assistant Ranger for Madison County Jeremy Graves confirmed to NC Local that the fire was 100% contained on Monday evening but that the team kept an eye on the smouldering interior of the fire throughout Tuesday. Rain on Tuesday night should have put out the last active parts of the fire, he said.
Panther Creek Fire burned 110 acres in Haywood County since it started on Sunday. It was contained on Tuesday, Nov. 18.
The Ox Creek Fire in Buncombe County was 100% contained on Monday evening.
Reems Creek Fire Department Chief Chris Dorsey reminded community members on Tuesday that open burning is not permitted in Buncombe County.
What are prescribed burns?
Prescribed fires are controlled fires used for forest management and to reduce wildfire hazard. Here’s more information from the Park Service.
Because conditions have improved in the far western region, The Nantahala National Forest conducted a prescribed fire operation on 74 acres on Tuesday, Nov. in Murphy.
Check the N.C. Forest Service Wildfire map to see controlled/prescribed burns as well as updates on wildfires.
What are local officials saying?
Local leaders are asking folks in WNC not to burn brush or other materials at their homes during this time of elevated fire risk.
Buncombe County Fire Marshall issued a burn ban on Nov. 17 through Nov. 20 based on weather conditions.
Mitchell County Fire Marshall issued a burn ban on Nov. 18 that will remain in effect until rescinded by the county.
Check with your county government to see if there is a county-wide burn ban for your area.
The Cherokee County forecast on Tuesday increased fire risk, Murphy Mayor Tim Radford explained.
“This afternoon into early evening, forecasters warn of an elevated fire risk across the region. Low humidity and gusty south to southwest winds could cause outdoor fires to spread quickly and become hard to control,” Radford wrote on Facebook. “Winds may blow steadily through the day with stronger gusts at times, while humidity levels fall into the upper twenties and mid-thirties.”
Since then, fire danger has decreased in the far western counties.
What should you do when there is increased fire danger?
Check the fire danger level before starting a fire. Find information here at N.C. State’s website.
If you are burning items, keep water and safety tools like a shovel handy. Keep your phone nearby in case of an emergency to call 9-1-1. Find more tips on the N.C. Forest Service website.
When it comes to wildfire safety, experts recommend that you prepare long before a potential wildfire is happening. Have an emergency plan to leave your home quickly including important documents and supplies in a go-bag.
Possible Go Bag Items:
- 3-day supply of non-perishable food along with 3 gallons of water per person in case supplies are not available
- Prescriptions or medications
- Cash or traveler’s checks
- A first aid kit & sanitation supplies
To improve the safety of your home, remove debris from around your home including landscaping and maintenance. The N.C. Forest Service has created a number of fire advice videos including this video on home mitigation in WNC.
Embed YouTube video: https://youtu.be/BkQQHA_39D4
Who should you contact with questions about burning and wildfire concerns?
Your N.C. Forest Service county ranger can share guidance about the conditions in your county, share updates on burn requirements and give advice on burning. Here’s the contact information for each district office.
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