Saluda, North Carolina—A rapidly expanding wildfire near Cruso has prompted mandatory evacuations in Saluda and surrounding areas as firefighters battle the blaze amid challenging conditions. The fire, fueled by dry vegetation and strong winds, has consumed thousands of acres and threatens homes and infrastructure.
Evacuation Orders and Affected Areas
Authorities issued mandatory evacuation orders for residents along U.S. Highway 176 between Tryon and Saluda, emphasizing the fire’s rapid growth and the need for immediate action. The towns of Tryon and Saluda, located approximately 40 miles south of Asheville, are under threat as the fire advances.
In Polk County, North Carolina, three significant wildfires—Black Cove, Deep Woods, and Fish Hook—are challenging firefighters due to rough terrain and debris from Hurricane Helene. The Black Cove Fire, sparked by a downed power line, has burned over 2,000 acres and remains uncontained. The Deep Woods Fire, the largest at 1,802 acres, is also 0% contained, prompting evacuation orders near the Henderson County line. The Fish Hook Fire has burned 199 acres and is 50% contained, resulting in the loss of at least six structures.
Firefighters are contending with high winds and challenging terrain, hindering containment efforts. The presence of debris from Hurricane Helene has exacerbated the situation, providing additional fuel for the fires. Despite these obstacles, crews have made progress, achieving over 10% containment on both the Black Cove and Deep Woods fires.
In South Carolina, two fires have nearly doubled in size but have been kept from reaching homes. Millions of trees felled by Hurricane Helene are fueling the fires and hindering access for firefighting efforts. Mandatory evacuations affect hundreds of people in both North and South Carolina, with about 250 homes evacuated in Polk County, NC, and similar numbers in Pickens and Greenville counties, SC.
Impact on Residents and Infrastructure
The fires have led to the destruction of numerous buildings and the evacuation of hundreds of homes. Residents in affected areas are urged to stay alert and heed evacuation directives. The North Carolina Department of Public Safety has announced mandatory evacuations for parts of Polk County, emphasizing the fire’s rapid growth and the need for immediate action.
Environmental Conditions and Contributing Factors
Dry and windy conditions have elevated the fire danger across the region. The lingering devastation from Hurricane Helene has left millions of downed trees, providing ample fuel for the wildfires. A red flag warning has been issued due to favorable conditions for wildfire spread, and authorities have stressed the importance of adhering to burn bans to prevent further outbreaks.
Government Response and Resources
In response to the escalating situation, South Carolina’s governor has declared a state of emergency, enabling the allocation of additional resources to combat the fires. The North Carolina Forest Service has imposed a statewide burn ban to mitigate further risks. Emergency shelters have been established for displaced residents, and the National Guard has been deployed to assist in firefighting efforts.
Public Safety Measures and Advisories
Residents in affected and surrounding areas are advised to monitor updates from local authorities and adhere to evacuation orders promptly. Air quality alerts have been issued due to smoke from the fires, and individuals with respiratory conditions are encouraged to limit outdoor activities. The public is reminded to comply with burn bans and exercise caution to prevent additional fire outbreaks.
Conclusion
The Cruso wildfire’s rapid expansion has placed communities like Saluda in immediate danger, prompting swift action from authorities and emergency responders. As firefighters work tirelessly to contain the blaze, residents are urged to stay informed and prioritize safety. The situation remains fluid, and continued vigilance is essential as conditions evolve.
(Source: newsbreak.com)