Three wildfires are currently burning in McDowell County, leading to some evacuations in the area. The fires are located in the North Fork, Watson Place, and Crooked Creek communities.
The North Fork Fire is burning in the American Thread Road area, while the Watson Place Fire is located on US-221 North in Marion. The Crooked Creek Fire is estimated to have burned 150 acres with 0% containment, and an evacuation order has been issued for areas including the 3000-4500 block of Bat Cave Road, Pine Cove Road, Cherry Springs Road, Roy Moore Road, Julia Drive, and Cozy Cove Drive.
Emergency personnel are on the scene at each fire, with crews working to contain the blazes and protect structures and lives. High winds are creating dangerous fire conditions, with gusts of 25-35 mph and relative humidity values of 20-30%. The public is advised to refrain from any outdoor burning and to avoid the areas affected by the fires.
Multiple outbuildings have been destroyed by the Crooked Creek Fire, but no homes have been destroyed, and no injuries or fatalities have been reported. An emergency shelter is open at 203 East Main Street in Old Fort for residents who need to evacuate.
The fires are being fought by a combined effort of emergency agencies, including those from McDowell County, neighboring counties, and state and federal partners. As of 4:28 p.m., the Crooked Creek Fire remains at 0% containment, with 150 acres burned, and an evacuation order in place for the areas mentioned above.
Residents are advised to stay away from the areas affected by the fires and to follow evacuation orders and shelter updates. For the latest information, they can follow official social media accounts and emergency management websites.