North Fork Fire in McDowell Co. up to 350 acres, now 40% contained
MCDOWELL COUNTY, N.C. (WSPA) – The North Fork Fire in McDowell County, which has burned around 350 acres, is now 40% contained.
The United States Forest Service said there are around 100 personnel fighting the wildfire, which is burning just east of U.S. 221 in the northern part of McDowell County.
The fire is located south of American Thread Road along the cliffs above the North Fork of the Catawba River in Pisgah National Forest, officials said.
Crews began burnout operations Thursday to remove fuel from the fires along the containment lines.
According to the U.S. Forest Service, crews are working to hold and improve fire lines Friday ahead of anticipated light rainfall which is expected to help increase containment.
Smoke from the fire is expected to lessen throughout the day and into the weekend but areas of smoke may continue to impact people in the North Cove, Woodlawn, Marion and Lake James areas.
Bald Mountain Road, Graveyard Mountain Road and the Mountains to Sea Trail between U.S. 221 and FSR 106 will remain closed.
There's no word yet on what sparked the fire.
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