Firefighters continue to battle the Black Cove Complex wildfires in Polk and Henderson counties, with a combined total area of 7,670 acres currently affected. The three identified fires—Black Cove, Deep Woods, and Fish Hook—vary in containment levels, with Fish Hook being completely contained.
Humidity recovery was strong overnight, contributing to a reduction in fire behavior and facilitating firefighters’ efforts to secure containment lines. Early morning showers further mitigated fire threats, allowing crews to focus on patrolling, mopping up hotspots, and repairing impacted areas.
Authorities continue to evaluate evacuation levels as the situation progresses. Residents are advised to refer to Polk and Henderson Counties’ websites for the latest evacuation updates.
A Temporary Flight Restriction remains in place to ensure the safety of aerial firefighting operations and prevent disruptions from unauthorized drone flights. Drones can present serious safety risks to firefighting aircraft, firefighters, and the community.
A State of Emergency was declared on March 26 by Governor Josh Stein, enhancing the response capacity for the fires in Western North Carolina. A statewide ban on open burning, effective since March 21, continues to be in force, canceling all burning permits and prohibiting new ones.
Residents can monitor statewide wildfire activity using the North Carolina Wildfire Public Viewer and receive updates from the N.C. Forest Service.
