What is the name and location of the wildfires?

As of March 28, 2025, three major wildfires are affecting western North Carolina: the Black Cove, Deep Woods, and Fish Hook fires (1). They are burning across seven miles of mountains in Polk County, with some fires sparking voluntary evacuations in nearby Henderson County (2).

The fires are in a mountainous region impacted by Hurricane Helene, including forests and woodlands near Green River Gorge, Holbert Cove, and Lake Adger.

Dry conditions across the Carolinas have created an elevated fire risk. High winds are fanning the flames, complicating containment efforts.

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The fires are impacting Polk County and Henderson County, with mandatory evacuations in areas near Green River Cove Road, Big Hungry Road, Holbert Cove Road, and Fox Paw Lane.

The town of Saluda is also at risk, as the Black Cove Fire is burning less than two miles away. Other nearby communities are Columbus and Mill Spring.

What is the current containment status of the wildfire?

As of March 28, 2025, the Black Cove Fire is 17% contained and has burned over 3,288 acres (3). The Deep Woods Fire is 30% contained and has burned approximately 3,373 acres. The Fish Hook Fire is 86% contained and has burned 199 acres.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for multiple areas, including:

• Green River Cove Road (1091–1528 addresses)
• Lady Slipper Trail, Big Hungry Road, Spurgeon Cove Lane, English Heifer Cove, Deer Trail, and Scarlets Mountain Road
• Holbert Cove Road (5079–7625 addresses) and Fox Paw Lane

Voluntary evacuation notices were sent to residents in the Laurel Mountain View Road and Boulder View Road in Henderson County. Evacuation orders were lifted for areas near the Fish Hook Fire (4).

A Red Cross Shelter has been set up at 75 Carmel Lane in Columbus, North Carolina. Additionally, a burn ban is in effect throughout North Carolina due to hazardous fire conditions.

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

• Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
• Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
• Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
• Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
• Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.

As of March 28, 2025, the Black Cove fire is at 17% contained, the Deep Woods fire is at 30% contained and the Fish Hook fire is 95% contained.