As of March 29, 2025, nearly 500 personnel are involved in the efforts at the Black Cove Complex, which spans Polk and Henderson counties in North Carolina. Firefighting teams from both within the state and 14 other states are collaborating on the ground. The situation has shown signs of stabilization due to more humid and calmer weather conditions, benefiting the suppression and repair activities across the affected fires.
The Black Cove Fire encompasses 3,500 acres and is 35% contained. It is located approximately two miles northeast of Saluda in the Green River Gorge, affecting both state-owned and private land. Controlled firing operations were successfully conducted in the Camp Creek area. This fire was initially reported on March 19, with the cause traced back to a downed powerline.
The Deep Woods Fire covers 3,970 acres and is 32% contained. It is situated about five miles northwest of Columbus, impacting the Green River Gorge and the Holbert Cove community. Crews managed to secure containment lines following successful operations. The cause of this fire, first reported on the same day as the Black Cove Fire, is still under investigation.
The Fish Hook Fire has been fully contained after burning 199 acres near Lake Adger. This fire also began due to a downed powerline and was first reported on March 20.
Evacuation levels are under constant review, and updates for Polk and Henderson counties can be found on their respective websites. A Temporary Flight Restriction is in place, restricting airspace from the surface to 5,500 feet to ensure the safety of firefighting aircraft.
Governor Josh Stein declared a State of Emergency on March 26 to bolster the response capabilities to the ongoing wildfires in Western North Carolina. Additionally, a statewide ban on open burning was enacted on March 21, which remains active to help mitigate fire risks.
For comprehensive wildfire activity updates, the North Carolina Wildfire Public Viewer is available, and one can subscribe to further updates from the N.C. Forest Service.
