Wildfires Rage in Western North Carolina as Evacuations Increase

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — Wildfires continue to spread rapidly across Western North Carolina, prompting urgent evacuation orders in several communities. As of Thursday evening, March 27, 2025, the Table Rock Fire has surged to over 8,000 acres with no containment, while the Persimmon Ridge Fire is at nearly 2,000 acres and also remains uncontained.

The South Carolina Forestry Commission reported that these two fires now exceed the scale of the 2016 Pinnacle Mountain Fire, the largest in Upstate history. Both fires were attributed to human activity and are forcing residents to evacuate from surrounding areas, including parts of Transylvania County where emergency management is actively coordinating efforts.

As firefighters grapple with extremely challenging conditions, the Rattlesnake Branch Fire in Haywood County has reached approximately 629 acres and is only 5% contained. The U.S. Forest Service has announced closures of the Shining Rock Wilderness Area due to the ongoing firefighting efforts.

“Firefighters are working tirelessly to protect lives and property as these fires continue to threaten residential areas,” said Dennis Fagnant, West Buncombe Fire Chief. “Safety remains our top priority as we monitor the situation.”

In preparation for potential evacuations, crews are constructing fire lines between active fires and homes to help slow fire progress. The North Carolina Forest Service has mobilized numerous resources, including ground crews and aerial support from CL-415 planes, to combat the flames.

The Rattlesnake Branch Fire has recently begun spreading westward into the Shining Rock Wilderness. This prompted Haywood County to declare a state of emergency effective March 26, 2025. Fire conditions have been exacerbated by strong winds and dry weather.

“We are in a critical situation with these wildfires,” stated Jason Boyer, News 13 Chief Meteorologist. “With the ongoing air quality alerts in effect, residents should avoid prolonged outdoor exposure.”

Residents in the vicinity of the Alarka Community have been ordered to evacuate as the Alarka Five Fire has burned 911 acres and remains uncontained. The community has also reported significant damage to structures.

Despite these challenges, firefighters are showing progress. The Freedom Farm Fire has reached 130 acres with 60% containment, and crews have recently lifted some evacuation orders in certain areas as the situation stabilizes.

The USDA Forest Service emphasized that the closure of affected wilderness areas includes all recreational access points to ensure the safety of the public while firefighting operations continue. They urge all visitors to stay clear of these areas and cooperate with local emergency officials.

As the wildfires persist, officials are advising local residents to remain prepared for emergency situations, keeping essential supplies handy and following guidance from local authorities regarding evacuation orders.

The North Carolina Forest Service has confirmed that over 90 wildfires have occurred in the region since the beginning of 2025, with outlooks predicting more conditions favorable to wildfire growth due to warmer temperatures and low precipitation.