Evacuations Ordered as Brush Fire Spreads Near Tryon, N.C.

TRYON, N.C. — A large brush fire prompted urgent evacuations in Tryon on Saturday, March 1, threatening nearby communities along U.S. Highway 176. The blaze, which has consumed approximately 400 acres, remains uncontained as of early Sunday morning.

The Tryon Police Department issued evacuation orders for residents extending from the 1100 to 3910 blocks of U.S. Highway 176 and areas surrounding Meadowlark Drive. Additional roads affected include Warrior Mountain Road, Sourwood Ridge Road, and several others.

Deputy Chief Josh Connell of the Tryon Fire Department confirmed that multiple fire departments are actively working to suppress the fire, which ignited after a tree fell onto power lines in windy conditions exacerbated by a Red Flag Warning.

“We have aviation resources, two dozers, and many departments collaborating to combat this fire,” Connell said. Although about 40 structures are currently at risk, no damage has been reported so far.

As of 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, officials stated that the fire was still 0% contained. Trent Duncan with the North Carolina Forest Service emphasized that while no structures have been lost, residents are urged to remain vigilant as the situation develops.

Evacuated residents are being directed to a shelter located at the Polk County Senior Center on Carmel Lane in Columbus. Officials have been conducting door-to-door outreach in affected areas to ensure residents are aware of the situation and can evacuate safely.

Authorities continue to monitor the fire, and locals are advised to stay informed through the Tryon Daily Bulletin for updates as they become available. For any inquiries, residents can reach out to the Tryon Police Department at 828-859-9195.