NC, SC Wildfires Force Evacuations, Declare State of Emergency
By: Wise News Network Staff
Western NC (WNN)— Wildfires have swept through nearly 15,000 acres across North and South Carolina, prompting states of emergency, mandatory evacuations, and important firefighting efforts. The fires, which began as early as March 19th, fueled by dry conditions, strong winds, and debris from Hurricane Helene, continue to threaten communities and natural areas.
Extent of the Wildfires
In North Carolina, the Black Cove Fire and Deep Woods Fire in Polk County have collectively burned over 6,200 acres, with containment efforts ongoing.
The Black Cove Fire has reached 3,052 acres with 17% containment, while the Deep Woods Fire spans 3,231 acres with 11% containment. These fires have destroyed multiple homes and led to the evacuation of approximately 250 residences.
In South Carolina, the Table Rock Fire and the Persimmon Ridge Fire, part of the Table Rock Fire Complex, have consumed around 6,100 acres combined, with no reported containment. These fires have necessitated evacuations in Greenville and Pickens counties, affecting hundreds of residents.
State of Emergency Declared
Governors Josh Stein of North Carolina and Henry McMaster of South Carolina have declared states of emergency in response to the wildfires. Stein issued North Carolina’s state of emergency on March 26th, while McMaster declared South Carolina’s state of emergency on March 2nd, 2025.
While various communities have already issued local states of emergency, Stein expanded the order to the state level to enhance North Carolina’s ability to respond. The order came a week after two of the three fires making up the Black Cove Complex first ignited.
Factors Contributing to the Fires
Ongoing dry conditions and strong winds have worsened the wildfires, causing them to spread rapidly. Additionally, Hurricane Helene knocked down millions of trees, making it harder for firefighters to control the flames and reach affected areas.
Evacuations and Emergency Responce
Mandatory evacuations have been ordered in multiple counties. In North Carolina, approximately 250 homes in Polk County have been evacuated due to the Black Cove and Deep Woods Fires. South Carolina has reported similar evacuation numbers in Pickens and Greenville counties as the Table Rock and Persimmon Ridge Fires threaten residential areas.
Air Quality Concerns
The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality has issued a Code Purple air quality alert for Transylvania County, indicating very unhealthy air conditions due to smoke from the wildfires. Code Red alerts are in effect for Henderson, Polk, and Swain counties, while Rutherford County faces a Code Orange alert.
Authorities advise residents to limit outdoor activities, especially children, older adults, and individuals with respiratory conditions.
Ongoing Firefighting Efforts
Firefighters have made some progress in containment, but many fires remain largely uncontained. The Fish Hook Fire in Polk County, North Carolina, has burned 199 acres and is 86% contained.
Meanwhile, the Rattlesnake Branch Fire in Haywood County has grown to between 400 and 500 acres overnight, burning westward into the Shining Rock Wilderness Area. Despite these efforts, the combination of dry conditions, fallen debris, and challenging terrain continues to hinder firefighting operations.
Community Impact and Safety Measures
The wildfires have led to the destruction of homes, displacement of residents, and worsening air quality. Authorities urge residents to stay alert, adhere to evacuation orders, and follow air quality advisories. A North Carolina statewide burn ban remains in effect to prevent additional fire outbreaks.
As the situation evolves, officials continue to monitor the fires closely, deploying resources to protect communities and manage the ongoing crisis.
For more WNN video news stories, visit YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wisenewsnetwork
For further WNN articles and news stories, visit https://wisenewsnetwork.com
Contact WNN at [email protected]
Copyright 2025 Wise News Network. All rights reserved. ©
