The North Carolina Department of Public Safety has ordered a mandatory evacuation of southern Polk County. This decision is largely made due to the encroaching, deadly wildfires surrounding the area. The evacuation, which began at 8:20 p.m. on Saturday, comes as fires continue to blaze about 30 miles southeast of Asheville. The wildfires were fanned by damage caused by Hurricane Helene.
Three of the largest fires in California’s history are burning at the same time in southern California. As of Thursday, the Black Cove fire had burned 2,076 acres, and the Deep Woods fire, which started about a week later, had covered 1,700 acres. At the same time, the Fish Hook fire has burned 1,713 acres and now is listed as 50% contained. According to the North Carolina Forest Service, downed trees from Hurricane Florence have been contributing to the rapid spread of these fires. Low humidity and dry prickly pear cactus have been making it worse.
Polk County residents are advised to limit the amount of time they spend outdoors. As a result, a “code red” air quality alert has been announced, pointing at grave air quality levels.
“Visibility in area will be reduced and roads/evacuation routes can become blocked; if you do not leave now, you could be trapped, injured, or killed.” – North Carolina Department of Public Safety
In South Carolina, the wildfire risk is just as dangerous. The fire Table Rock has quickly grown to 300 acres with no containment. In reply, Gov. Henry McMaster issued a statewide state of emergency.
“As this wildfire continues to spread, the State of Emergency allows us to mobilize resources quickly and ensure our firefighters have the support they need to protect lives and property.” – Governor Henry McMaster
To prevent additional accidents from occurring, the South Carolina Forestry Commission has decreed a statewide ban on outdoor burning. The difficult topography and debris from recent storms complicate efforts to contain the fires.
“It’s not just the high winds, the low humidity, the steep terrain, but they’re also dealing with storm debris that’s blocking UTV trails, regular roads, and them just getting in on foot because we have so many trees down.” – Kellie Cannon, spokesperson for Polk County government
In order to serve the displaced and affected, a Red Cross shelter has been opened in Columbus, North Carolina. The community is encouraged to follow safety advisories and evacuation orders to protect themselves and emergency responders.