North Wake News

The ongoing Black Cove Complex fires in Polk and Henderson counties have become the highest priority wildfire in the United States, prompting an extensive response from authorities. An incident management team has been given priority for resources, and 476 personnel from North Carolina and other states are involved in the effort.

The weather is exacerbating fire conditions, with lower humidity and higher winds contributing to rapid fire spread. The Southern Appalachian Fuel and Fire Behavior Advisory reports that March 2025 has seen the lowest relative humidity recorded in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Smoke from the Table Rock Fire in South Carolina is affecting the area but is expected to diminish by afternoon.

A community meeting is scheduled for Thursday, March 27, at 6 p.m. at The Party Place & Event Center in Saluda, where fire managers and emergency officials will provide updates on the Black Cove, Deep Woods, and Fish Hook fires.

The Black Cove Fire, which began on March 19, covers 3,052 acres and is 17% contained. It is burning northeast of Saluda in timber areas. Efforts are focused on containment along the western edge, with a successful strategic firing operation completed in Henderson County.

The Deep Woods Fire is reported at 3,231 acres with 11% containment, burning northwest of Columbus. Firefighters are maintaining the fire north of Holbert Cove Road. The cause of this fire is still under investigation.

The Fish Hook Fire spans 199 acres and is 86% contained near Lake Adger. Firefighting personnel have halted the fire's progress and are reinforcing containment lines. The fire, caused by a downed powerline, was reported on March 20.

Governor Josh Stein has declared a State of Emergency to bolster the state’s response capabilities, and a statewide ban on open burning has been effective since March 21. Evacuation levels are being reassessed continuously, and Temporary Flight Restrictions remain in place to ensure safety during aerial firefighting operations.

For ongoing updates and wildfire activity, residents are encouraged to use the North Carolina Wildfire Public Viewer and subscribe to updates from the N.C. Forest Service.

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