Wildfires Rage Through Western North Carolina Amid State of Emergency

TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY, N.C. — A State of Emergency is in effect as three significant wildfires threaten Western North Carolina, raising alarms across affected communities. The Table Rock Fire has expanded to 12,000 acres, breaching into Transylvania County from South Carolina, while the Rattlesnake Branch Fire and Persimmon Ridge Fire continue to burn with alarming intensity. As firefighters battle these flames, officials warn that poor air quality may pose additional health risks.

On Saturday, March 29, the Southern Area Blue Team announced it plans to conduct a controlled burn of 3,000 acres on the west side of the Table Rock Fire to help manage the blaze. Jamie Laughter, the public information officer for Transylvania County, explained the importance of these operations as they work with equipment from various crews. “We have all kinds of equipment that has come in — everything from firetrucks and dozers, and we also have aerial resources,” Laughter stated.

The Persimmon Ridge Fire has spread to an estimated 2,000 acres, while the Rattlesnake Branch Fire, which originated in Haywood County, has consumed 1,200 acres and breached into Transylvania County. The U.S. Forest Service is currently engaged in containment efforts.

Recent weather conditions have caused winds to exacerbate the wildfire situation. “Wind has been a huge issue,” Laughter said, indicating that high winds and rising temperatures have contributed significantly to fire spread. However, officials noted that increased humidity and anticipated rain may assist containment efforts.

Residents in surrounding communities have reported worsening air quality due to smoke. The North Carolina Department of Air Quality issued a “Code Red” alert for several counties, including Transylvania, warning that vulnerable populations, including children and those with pre-existing conditions, should limit outdoor exposure.

Efforts to manage the Alarka 5 Fire near Bryson City are showing progress, with containment reaching 18% as of March 29. Incident commander Mitch Ketron reported that more than 160 personnel are working diligently to control the 1,390-acre blaze, with all evacuation orders lifted. Community members were updated during a meeting at the Alarka Fire Department, reflecting the ongoing support from local officials.

The Rattlesnake Branch Fire, located 11 miles southeast of Waynesville, remains around 20% contained. Firefighters have implemented strategic operations, employing aerial resources to backburn and mitigate uncontrolled spread.

Additionally, the Black Cove Fire Complex has seen marginal improvements. As of March 29, the Black Cove Fire is now 3,500 acres and is 35% contained. Favorable weather conditions have allowed firefighters to carry out controlled burn operations, aiding in overall containment progress.

As the Table Rock Fire continues to pose a significant threat, officials remind citizens to stay alert and monitor evacuation orders issued by emergency management. Laughter stressed the critical nature of maintaining communication with residents as conditions remain fluid in a situation that is evolving rapidly.