Wildfires Sweep Through Western North Carolina As Crews Battle Growing Threat

Wildfires have erupted across McDowell County, North Carolina, prompting evacuations as flames spread through areas still struggling to recover from Hurricane Helene. The most destructive of the blazes, the Crooked Creek Fire, has burned at least 250 acres near Old Fort and was only 15% contained as of Wednesday night, emergency officials said.

Investigators say the fire began when a tree fell onto a power line, igniting dry debris and brush left in the wake of Helene. Strong winds, with gusts reaching 50 mph, helped push the flames toward residential areas, leading to immediate evacuation orders. Emergency crews have been working to prevent further property loss, with a shelter now open at a local church for those forced to leave their homes.

The North Carolina Forest Service had issued a warning earlier in the day, citing an increased wildfire risk due to low humidity, high winds, and ongoing drought conditions. Officials say the Crooked Creek Fire is growing rapidly, making containment efforts difficult.

Additional fires were reported in the county, with the North Fork Fire and the Watson Place Fire burning in Marion. Authorities have yet to release updates on their size or containment status.

Local residents say the fires are complicating recovery efforts from Helene, which caused significant damage across the region. Many homes in Old Fort were destroyed during the storm, and now those who have returned face another disaster.

Fire crews remain on high alert, as wind conditions could continue to pose a challenge in the coming days.

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