The Black Cove Complex in Polk County has become the highest-priority fire in the United States, according to the North Carolina Forest Service (NCFS).
The Black Cove Complex in Polk County has become the highest-priority fire in the United States, according to the North Carolina Forest Service . A total of 476 personnel from across North Carolina and other states are now working to contain the blaze, the NCFS said.
The National Weather Service on Wednesday issued a Red Flag Warning for Polk and Henderson counties, signaling the potential for severe fire behavior and rapid spread. Per the NCFS and the Southern Appalachian Fuel and Fire Behavior Advisory, March 2025 has seen the lowest average relative humidity in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. This, in turn, has worsened fire conditions in western North Carolina.As of Thursday morning, the Black Cove Fire has grown to 3,052 acres and is 17% contained. The fire is located approximately two miles northeast of Saluda in the Green River Gorge.The Black Cove Fire's behavior "has continued to be intense, with rapid fire spread and extreme burning conditions due to high winds and dry weather," the NCFS said via a release Thursday. Despite this, firefighters completed a successful strategic firing operation on the northwest portion of the fire to establish containment within Henderson County.The Deep Woods Fire has now reached 3,231 acres and is 11% contained. The fire is burning approximately five miles northwest of Columbus, N.C. in the Green River Gorge and in the neighboring community of Holbert Cove.The fire was initially reported on March 19. The cause of this fire remains under investigation.FISH HOOK FIRE The Fish Hook Fire has reached 199 acres and is 86% contained. It is burning approximately five miles northwest of Mill Spring, N.C. near Lake Adger.Containment is expected to increase in the coming days, according to the NCFS. Crews will remain on scene until the fire is no longer a threat.IMPORTANT INFORMATION Gov. Josh Stein on Wednesday expanded the state of emergency to further the state's response to these ongoing wildfires. A temporary flight restriction has also been implemented. A statewide open burning ban also remains in effect.to track the fire size and evacuation orders. A community meeting will be held on Thursday, March 27 at 6 p.m. at The Party Place and Event Center in Saluda. Fire managers and emergency officials will be onsite to provide updates and answer questions.
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Black Cove Complex Fire in Polk County becomes 'highest-priority fire' in USAThe Black Cove Complex in Polk County has become the highest-priority fire in the United States, according to the North Carolina Forest Service (NCFS).
Read more »
Black Cove Complex Fire in Polk County becomes 'highest-priority fire' in USAThe Black Cove Complex in Polk County has become the highest-priority fire in the United States, according to the North Carolina Forest Service (NCFS).
Read more »
Black Cove Complex Fire in Polk County becomes 'highest-priority fire' in USAThe Black Cove Complex in Polk County has become the highest-priority fire in the United States, according to the North Carolina Forest Service (NCFS).
Read more »