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McDowell County wildfire grows to 250 acres, evacuation orders remain
Emergency crews are working to contain a wildfire in Western North Carolina on Wednesday night.
McDowell County Emergency Management said that the wildfire in Old Fort is currently 15% contained, but evacuation orders remain in place.
The wildfire, burning in the Crooked Creek community, is estimated to cover 250 acres.
Evacuation orders will continue overnight for residents in the 3000-4500 block of Bat Cave Rd., Pine Cove Rd., Cherry Springs Rd., Roy Moore Rd., Julia Drive, the 1000 block of Lavender Rd., and Cozy Cove Dr., including all private drives off these roads. No new areas have been added to the evacuation zone.
While multiple outbuildings have been destroyed and one home has suffered damage, no homes have been completely destroyed, and no deaths have been reported.
Firefighters are focused on structure protection and will work overnight to connect containment lines and increase the containment percentage.
The evacuation order will be reassessed at 8 a.m. on Thursday morning. For now, the order will remain in effect overnight for the safety of residents and responders.
An emergency shelter is open at 203 East Main Street in Old Fort, NC, and is pet-friendly.
Officials will provide further updates as more information becomes available. Residents are urged to stay informed through local media, the McDowell County Emergency Management Agency’s social media channels, and the NIXLE alert system. To receive emergency alerts, text 28752 to 888777.