The Sunset Road Fire in Brunswick County, North Carolina, remains a concern as it covers 1,331 acres and is currently 83% contained. The fire began on May 2 and was traced back to a debris burn on private property that occurred on April 25. Bobby Max Lowery of Nebo, NC, has been cited and charged under North Carolina General Statute 14-140.1 for the incident.
Persistent drought conditions in southeastern North Carolina have left vegetation susceptible to fires. The area affected by the fire consists of heavy brush fuels with a pond pine/longleaf pine overstory. These conditions, along with a cold front passing through the region, contributed to the severe fire behavior observed on May 3.
On May 11, approximately 2.75 inches of rain fell around the fire area, creating muddy conditions that have temporarily halted some firefighting operations. Personnel remain stationed locally until conditions improve.
A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is active from the surface up to 3,000 feet until further notice. Flying drones within this restricted area is illegal and poses risks to pilots and firefighting efforts.
The N.C. Forest Service expressed gratitude to the City of Boiling Spring Lakes for their cooperation during the wildfire investigation.
For updates on the Sunset Road Fire, visit www.ncagr.gov/divisions/nc-forest-service/fire-control-and-prevention/sit-report or follow them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/NCForestService.
