Massive Wildfires Threaten Western North Carolina, Prompt Emergency Response

TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY, N.C. — A series of significant wildfires continue to ravage Western North Carolina as the Table Rock Complex Fire expands, prompting a State of Emergency in the region. As of March 30, the Table Rock Fire has grown to over 12,000 acres and breached into Transylvania County, prompting urgent firefighting efforts.

The blazes, which also include the Persimmon Ridge Fire and the Rattlesnake Branch Fire, have combined to produce thick smoke and pose serious threats to local communities. Fire officials are working tirelessly to contain the fires, with the Southern Area Blue Team coordinating efforts with local fire services.

“We have all kinds of equipment that has come in over the last few days — everything from firetrucks to aerial support,” said Jamie Laughter, Transylvania County’s public information officer. “Our priority is to protect lives and property.”

The Table Rock fire is currently the largest wildfire in South Carolina history after crossing the state line into North Carolina. The Southern Area Blue Team implemented a controlled burn of 3,000 acres on the west side of the Table Rock Fire over the weekend, a process meant to manage the spread of the flames.

Meanwhile, the Rattlesnake Branch Fire has also significantly impacted Transylvania County, having officially breached its borders. Spanning 1,200 acres, it is being monitored closely. “Wind has been a huge issue in the past few days, particularly in the afternoons when temperatures rise,” Laughter noted.

Error conditions have been compounded by dry weather and low humidity, creating a perfect storm for wildfire growth. The National Weather Service has also issued red flag warnings, indicating heightened fire danger in the area. Meteorologists predict thunderstorms with rain starting on Sunday, which may aid firefighting efforts.

With firefighting crews working around the clock, Governor Josh Stein announced that the state has expanded its resources to combat the fires. “Our Emergency Response Team is fully mobilized,” he stated. “The safety of our residents is our utmost concern.”

As the situation continues to evolve, local communities are urged to stay alert for possible evacuation orders. Thousands of people have already been displaced due to mandatory evacuations, with emergency shelters opened across the affected areas.

Henderson, Polk, and Swain counties are currently under a Code Red air quality alert, indicating prolonged exposure could be hazardous for health. The N.C. Department of Environmental Quality continues to monitor air quality closely, advising vulnerable populations to minimize outdoor activities.

Authorities remind residents that while fire conditions are improving, the danger of wildfires remains high. Emergency management officials are asking residents to heed safety warnings and prepare for potential evacuations.