Fire crews were responding to two wildfires in Buncombe County Thursday afternoon, as dry and windy conditions raised fire danger across Western North Carolina, according to county officials.
The Enka Candler Fire Department and the North Carolina Forest Service are working to contain a fire in the Milk Sick Cove area that has burned around 25 acres and is about 10% contained. The fire is in steep, wooded terrain, and crews expect to remain on the scene through the evening.
In Fairview, the Fairview Fire Department and the Forest Service are handling a fire near Lower Brush Creek and Burney Mountain Road. It has burned about six acres and is 20% contained. Heavy blowdown is slowing progress, and crews are also expected to remain on scene into the night.
County officials are asking people to avoid both areas so firefighters can work safely.
Fire officials urge caution
With high winds and dry conditions, the Buncombe County fire marshal is asking residents to pause any planned burning on Thursday. There is no burn ban, but officials say even small fires can spread quickly.
Residents can check day-of guidance on the county’s open burning hotline at 828-250-6767.
