Active Wildfire Alert - Linville Gorge
Evening update posted below
https://www.facebook.com/share/1B3KfU7YPY/
"OLD HIGHWAY 105 FIRE UPDATE
USDA Forest Service firefighters along with multiple fire departments and emergency management organizations responded to a fire burning in Pisgah National Forest on the Grandfather Ranger District today. The Old Highway 105 Fire is burning on both sides of NC Highway 105, just south of Forest Service Road 106, inside and near the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, on the border of Burke and McDowell Counties. The fire is currently 12 acres and 60% contained.
The fire was reported early this morning and firefighters from the U.S. Forest Service, North Carolina Forest Service, Burke and McDowell Emergency Management, and local fire departments immediately began suppression activities and building firelines around the perimeter. The fire is burning in an area with steep terrain that was heavily affected by Hurricane Helene. Downed trees and dry conditions are contributing to increased wildfire intensity and risk. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Firelines were completed around the perimeter this afternoon and firefighters are working to hold those lines. Water tankers, fire trucks with large water tanks holding up to 2500 gallons, are distributing water along the firelines to support containment and suppression.
No trail closures are in place at this time. The Linville Gorge Wilderness area remains open.
Travel along Old NC Highway 105 may be limited over the next couple days. Please avoid the area for public and firefighter safety. If you need to drive in the area, drive slowly with headlights on and watch for firefighters and equipment working along roadways. Smoke may be visible from nearby communities and roads until significant there is significant rain.
For information about air quality, visit AirNow.gov or download the mobile app.
N.C. Forest Service Burke County Emergency Services & Emergency Management Office McDowell County 911 / Emergency Management"