Evacuations, toxic smoke, and uncontained flames—North Carolina in crisis

Three large wildfires in Polk County, North Carolina, have forced evacuations as flames continue to spread across more than 3,000 acres. Fire officials have confirmed that the Black Cove Fire, Deep Woods Fire, and Fish Hook Fire remain active, with at least two of the blazes still uncontained. The wildfires, which ignited last week, escalated rapidly over the weekend due to dry vegetation and low humidity, prompting state and local authorities to issue urgent evacuation orders.

The fires are burning in an area already impacted by Hurricane Helene, which swept through the region in September, leaving behind significant tree damage. The fallen trees and dry underbrush have provided additional fuel for the wildfires, complicating firefighting efforts.

What Is the Current Status of the Fires?

As of Sunday, emergency responders and firefighters continued battling the flames, but containment efforts have been challenging. According to Kelly Cannon, spokesperson for Polk County government, the Black Cove Fire has scorched approximately 1,239 acres and remains at 0% containment. Similarly, the Deep Woods Fire has consumed 1,713 acres with no containment progress reported.

The Fish Hook Fire, however, has seen some improvement. It has burned approximately 1,713 acres but is 50% contained. As a result, evacuation orders tied to this fire were lifted on Sunday, allowing displaced residents to return home.

How Are Authorities Responding to the Wildfires?

Authorities have deployed multiple firefighting units, including North Carolina Forest Service teams, to contain the spread of the blazes. However, the dry and windy conditions continue to pose challenges. The exact causes of the wildfires remain under investigation, and officials have yet to determine whether they were sparked by natural causes or human activity.

In response to the deteriorating air quality caused by the fires, the North Carolina Division of Air Quality issued air pollution alerts. Polk County has been placed under a “Code Red” alert, indicating unhealthy air conditions for all residents. In neighboring Rutherford County, a “Code Orange” warning has been issued, signaling hazardous conditions for people sensitive to smoke exposure, such as those with respiratory illnesses.

What Impact Have These Wildfires Had on South Carolina?

The crisis is not confined to North Carolina. In neighboring South Carolina, wildfires have also erupted, prompting Governor Henry McMaster to declare a state of emergency on Saturday.

One of the most severe fires has been raging in Table Rock State Park, located on the South Carolina-North Carolina border in Pickens County. The fire, which started on Friday night, initially burned 35 acres but had expanded to 110 acres by Sunday, according to Pickens County Emergency Management. While efforts to contain the blaze continue, officials have not provided updated containment figures.

Governor McMaster’s state of emergency declaration aims to mobilize additional resources to combat the fires. The executive order includes a statewide burning ban, prohibiting residents from setting outdoor fires until further notice. Violators of this ban face legal consequences, with McMaster emphasizing that those who ignore the restriction “can and will go to jail.”

How Do These Fires Compare to Previous Wildfire Events in the Carolinas?

This marks the second time in March 2025 that Governor McMaster has had to declare a state of emergency due to wildfires. Earlier in the month, during the weekend of March 2 and 3, a series of wildfires broke out in the Carolina Forest area near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Those fires rapidly expanded, engulfing over 1,600 acres and threatening several communities, including Walkers Woods and Avalon. Firefighters were eventually able to contain that blaze before it caused severe structural damage.

Historically, the Carolinas have experienced an increase in wildfire frequency during dry seasons, particularly in regions where hurricanes have left behind excessive vegetation. Fallen trees and debris create ample fuel for fires, making post-hurricane seasons especially risky for wildfire outbreaks.

What Are the Next Steps for Firefighting Efforts?

As firefighters continue battling the wildfires in North Carolina and South Carolina, weather conditions will play a crucial role in determining whether containment efforts succeed. Officials are closely monitoring wind patterns and humidity levels, as these factors can either aid suppression efforts or exacerbate fire growth.

State agencies are urging residents in wildfire-prone areas to remain vigilant and follow evacuation orders if instructed. Authorities have also advised against any activities that could ignite additional fires, reinforcing the necessity of the statewide burning ban in South Carolina.

With thousands of acres already burned and hazardous air conditions affecting surrounding counties, emergency responders are working around the clock to prevent further destruction. The ongoing investigation into the causes of the fires will also be crucial in developing strategies to mitigate future wildfire risks in the region.