News

Powerlines downed by high wind spark wildfires in McDowell County

By Lightning Reports, Published: December 6, 2024

Powerlines downed by high winds sparked two wildfires Thursday in areas of McDowell County still recovering from Hurricane Helene.

Firefighters were working to contain the Newberry Creek and Buck Creek fires in the U.S. Forest Service Grandfather Ranger District in Pisgah National Forest. 

The Newberry Creek Fire is located in the Curtis Creek area near Old Fort. As of Friday morning, the fire was estimated at 5 acres and 70 percent contained. Firefighters made significant progress in containing the fire yesterday. A helicopter was able to assist with water drops as containment lines were installed. Fire activity is minimal today, with burning limited to the interior of the fire area. Firefighters are continuing to monitor the firelines and extinguish hot spots. 25 firefighters are on scene today from the U.S. Forest Service. Initial response yesterday was supported by Old Fort and Crooked Creek fire departments as well as McDowell County Emergency Management. No structures are at risk from the Newberry Creek fire. 

The Buck Creek Fire is located east of Highway 80 in the Lake Tahoma area of Marion. The fire was estimated at 55 acres and 20 percent contained. Firefighting efforts yesterday focused on installing fire breaks to slow the progress of the fire. Windy and dry conditions limited operations. Fire managers were assessing the area for additional firelines and preparing to construct lines around the perimeter where feasible. The fire is burning in rugged terrain with areas of downed trees from Hurricane Helene. The fire is expected to continue to grow as winds conditions moderate today.

Four houses were at risk within the Buck Creek fire area. The North Carolina Forest Service completed structure protection operations on Thursday and were continuing to monitor private property as the fire spreads to the north further into the National Forest. Helicopters made water drops on Friday focused on directing fire activity away from homes in the area.