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'Out of control' wildfire burning in McDowell Conty
The 50-acre fire has 0% containment as winds continue to gust near 30 mph.
OLD FORT, N.C. — An “out of control” wildfire burning near Old Fort is forcing evacuations, according to the McDowell County Emergency Management Administration. The 50-acre fire has 0% containment, according to the North Carolina Forest Service.
Residents living in the 3000-4500 block of Bat Cave Road, Pine Cove Road, Juliet Drive, and Roy Moore Road – including all side roads – should evacuate until this fire is under control, the county emergency management agency advised. An emergency shelter is opening at First Baptist Church on East Main Street in Old Fort.
Gusty winds are quickly spreading the fire and making it difficult to control, according to emergency officials. Nearby weather observations showed winds gusty near 30 mph throughout much of the day on Wednesday.
The WCNC Weather Impact Team has been warning about an increased fire danger this week. Weather conditions such as low humidity and gusty winds can promote the start and spread of fire.
RAISE YOUR WEATHER IQ: North Carolina wildfire season
WCNC Charlotte’s weather camera in northern Gaston County can see the smokey area quality toward western North Carolina.
Across the Carolinas, there is an elevated risk of fire spread.
The McDowell County fire emergency was briefly mentioned by state lawmakers at the start of Wednesday’s House Select Committee on Helene Recovery. Co-Chair Rep. Dudley Greene made mention of the fire emergency impacting some lawmakers and residents.
McDowell County was one of the counties damaged by Helene. Downed trees and other storm debris has long been feared as a factor increasing fire danger in the months ahead.