The N.C. Forest Service Incident Management Team is prioritizing public and firefighter safety as they manage the Sunset Road Fire in Brunswick County. Wildland fire engines and large equipment remain active on roads within the fire area, and motorists are advised to exercise caution, especially during rain that reduces visibility.
As of now, the fire has affected 1,331 acres and is 83% contained. Firefighters continued mop-up operations on Saturday, targeting areas with lingering hot spots identified by drone flights. Heavy equipment was used to address berms around Partridge Road where hot spots persist. The southern tip of the fire remains a critical focus for operations.
Firefighters are closely monitoring areas deemed contained using UTVs. Due to heavy rain and hazardous driving conditions on Sunday morning, crews have paused operations until it is safe to resume. Despite these challenges, containment has increased to 83%, with the fire still confined within its initial footprint.
The Sunset Road Fire began on May 2 in Boiling Spring Lakes in Brunswick County. No homes have been destroyed by the blaze.
Containment percentages indicate sections of the fire line that no longer pose an escape risk without further action from firefighters. Mop-up involves identifying areas with lingering smoke or heat and extinguishing them using water and heavy equipment.
Weather forecasts predict unsettled conditions near the coast through Sunday due to a stalled cold front south of the area. An area of low pressure developing over the Southeast early next week may result in extended rainy conditions. Winds from the southeast at 5 to 7 mph are expected today, with gusty winds possible near thunderstorms.
A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is currently in place from ground level up to 3,000 feet until further notice. Complete details can be found at https://tfr.faa.gov/tfr3/?page=detail_5_8047. Flying drones within a TFR zone is illegal as it endangers pilots’ safety and disrupts firefighting efforts. The public is reminded not to fly drones near wildfires.
