More Evacuation Orders in Place in Carolinas as Wildfires Burn

The wildfire situation has worsened across the Carolinas, prompting the declaration of a state of emergency. It has been nearly exactly six months since Hurricane Helene struck this part of the country. The massive number of trees that were brought down during this storm are now serving as tinder to fuel the fires that are spreading with ferocity. Here is the latest on this fast-changing situation.

Possibility of Merger of Two Major Wildfires Increasing in North Carolina

Officials in North Carolina are growing increasingly concerned that the two largest fires burning in the state could merge shortly. High winds and low humidity levels are forming a lethal combination, sending the flames spreading at a fast clip.

The Black Cove Complex Fire is the second-largest fire burning in the area. As of late Wednesday, this fire had burned over 3,000 acres and was 17% contained. The blaze is feeding on the fallen timber on a combination of state-owned and private land located about 2 miles to the northeast in Saluda in Polk County. The quick growth of this fire had made it the number one priority for crews.

At least seven homes have been destroyed by the Black Cove Complex Fire with several other structures currently threatened. Mandatory evacuations have also been put in place in some areas.

By declaring a state of emergency, North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein has freed up resources for residents needing to flee the scene. The governor is urging residents to enable all emergency alerts and to pay attention to all evacuation orders.

Fire crews are concerned that the Black Cove Complex Fire will merge with the Deep Woods Fire. This fire has scorched nearly 3,200 acres and is 11% contained. The Deep Woods fire has destroyed one home with over 100 more homes under evacuation orders.

North Carolina Forest Service spokesman EJ Dwigans reiterated the concern that these two major fires could join. High winds are pushing the flames closer together with each passing hour.