North Raleigh Today

Firefighters in Polk County are working to contain three wildfires that have been classified as the Black Cove Complex. The N.C. Forest Service Red Team took command of the situation on Saturday, March 22.

The complex includes the Black Cove, Deep Woods, and Fish Hook fires. A total of 249 personnel from North Carolina and other states are involved in managing these incidents.

The Black Cove Fire was first reported on March 19 and has grown to 2,076 acres. It is located in the Green River Gorge near Saluda, burning timber on steep terrain. Currently at 0% containment, control lines are being constructed to prevent spread into nearby neighborhoods. Evacuation orders affect several roads including Green River Cove Road and Lady Slipper Trail.

The Deep Woods Fire also began on March 19 and covers 2,545 acres in the Green River Gorge and Holbert Cove community near Columbus. Like the Black Cove Fire, it is burning timber on steep terrain with no containment yet achieved. Structure protection efforts are focused south of Holbert Cove Road with evacuations ordered for areas like Fox Paw Lane.

The Fish Hook Fire was reported a day later on March 20 and spans 199 acres near Lake Adger by Mill Spring. It has not expanded recently but better mapping updated its size estimates. At present, it is 50% contained with forward progress halted; all related evacuations have been lifted.

Efforts continue to secure firebreaks and extinguish remaining hot spots across these fires, particularly as containment increases for Fish Hook Fire. Authorities advise residents to stay informed through resources like the North Carolina Wildfire Public Viewer online.

For ongoing updates from the N.C. Forest Service about wildfires or burn bans, individuals can subscribe via their website.