12/06/2024
⚠️ U.S. Forest Service firefighters are responding to 2 fires in McDowell County today in the areas of Newberry Creek and Buck Creek. Both fires are the result of downed power lines due to high winds.⚠️
The Newberry Creek Fire is approximately 6 acres and is burning in an area with a history of prescribed fires. Firefighters are improving existing containment lines as a helicopter works to slow the spread of the fire. The U.S. Forest Service is working in partnership with the NC Forest Service, Old Fort, Crooked Creek and Pleasant Gardens Fire Departments, and McDowell County Emergency Management.
The Buck Creek Fire is located east of Highway 80. While initially reported at 4 acres, the fire has increased in size this afternoon due to wind and burn out operations. We will share more information on the status of this fire as it becomes available.
Please keep in mind that due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene, both Highway 80 and Curtis Creek Road remain closed except for local traffic. Please avoid these areas while firefighting operations are in progress.
📷Helicopter retrieves water out of lake at Camp Grier in Old Fort, NC for firefighting operations. Photo by Jon Lane.
