WNC — Western North Carolina is grappling with an outbreak of wildfires that have scorched thousands of acres across multiple counties, triggered mass evacuations, and severely impacted air quality. Fueled by dry conditions and gusty winds, the fires have intensified in recent days, prompting swift action from state and local emergency officials.
Polk County: Black Cove Complex
The most severe fires are concentrated in Polk County, where the Black Cove Complex—a grouping of three fires known as Black Cove, Deep Woods, and Fish Hook—has burned nearly 10 square miles. Officials report that containment remains limited, with Black Cove at just 17% and Deep Woods at 11% as of Wednesday night…