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McDowell County wildfire 15% contained, evacuation orders still in place
The 200-acre Crooked Creek Fire has 15% containment as winds continue to gust near 30 mph.
OLD FORT, N.C. — A large wildfire burning near Old Fort that’s spread to 200 acres is now 15% contained, according to the McDowell County Emergency Management Administration.
Evacuation orders are still in place as crews work to contain the flames amid dangerous conditions caused by high winds and dry weather.
Residents living between the 3000 and 4500 block of Bat Cave Road, Pine Cove Road, Julia Drive, and Roy Moore Road should evacuate until this fire is under control, the county emergency management agency advised. Officials advised this includes any residents living on side streets in that area.
An emergency shelter is opening at First Baptist Church on East Main Street in Old Fort.
Firefighters are trying to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby homes. As of 8:30 p.m., no injuries had been reported.
Resources are also now being shared with a second wildfire which is burning along Watson Place on US 221 North in Marion. At this time, there are no evacuation orders for this fire.
Gusty winds are quickly spreading the fire and making it difficult to control, according to emergency officials. Nearby weather observations showed winds gusty at least 30 mph throughout much of the day on Wednesday.
The WCNC Weather Impact Team has been warning about an increased fire danger this week. Weather conditions such as low humidity and gusty winds can promote the start and spread of fire.
RAISE YOUR WEATHER IQ: North Carolina wildfire season
WCNC Charlotte’s weather camera in northern Gaston County can see the smokey air quality toward western North Carolina.
Across the Carolinas, there is an elevated risk of fire spread.
The McDowell County fire emergency was briefly mentioned by state lawmakers at the start of Wednesday’s House Select Committee on Helene Recovery. Co-Chair Rep. Dudley Greene made mention of the fire emergency impacting some lawmakers and residents.
McDowell County was one of the counties damaged by Helene. Downed trees and other storm debris has long been feared as a factor increasing fire danger in the months ahead.