ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Firefighters are battling multiple wildfires across Western North Carolina as dry, windy conditions heighten the risk of fire spread, officials said Friday.
Nix Creek Road Fire
The Nix Creek Road Fire near Lake Logan, southeast of Waynesville, has burned roughly 40 acres and is 20 percent contained, the U.S. Forest Service reported. Firefighters, working in unified command with the N.C. Forest Service, used aerial support overnight to prevent further growth and have completed firelines around the perimeter. Crews will continue securing the fire’s edge toward full containment.
Smoke may be visible along Highway 215 and surrounding areas. Motorists are urged to use caution and watch for fire personnel. Air quality updates are available at fire.airnow.gov.
Poplar Fire
The Poplar Fire, about a mile north of Poplar, North Carolina, has burned 350 acres and is 60 percent contained. Firefighters increased containment by 20 percent on Thursday through continued patrols and heat suppression along the fire’s southeast perimeter near Poplar Road.
The fire is burning in an area heavily affected by Hurricane Helene, where numerous downed trees have contributed to wildfire intensity. Road closures at Rock Creek Road/TN 395 and NC 197/Poplar Creek Road have been lifted, but drivers are still advised to slow down and use caution…