Crews have nearly, if not completely, contained two of the three wildfires burning in western North Carolina, according to officials.
The Haoe Lead Fire burning west of Robbinsville, North Carolina, in the Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness is the least contained as of Wednesday morning.
In its latest update Wednesday, the U.S. Forest Service said crews had the wildfire at 29% containment. It has burned over 3,100 acres so far.
The fire started on April 12 because of a lightning strike, officials said.
“The fire is entirely on National Forest System lands, and no private lands or structures are threatened. No evacuations in effect or anticipated,” according to the updated statement Tuesday.
About 180 firefighters are battling the fire, which officials said has shown no growth in the last 24 hours. Officials said showers expected over the coming days should help with containment efforts.
Bee Rock Creek Fire
The Bee Rock Creek Fire in McDowell County is at 94% containment, according to an update from the Forest Service Wednesday morning.
The fire has burned an estimated 2,085 acres since it began.
The National Forest Service in North Carolina the area of the fire between Armstrong Creek Road and the Blue Ridge Parkway, along with some sections of the parkway, remain closed for public safety.
For more information on parkway closures, click here.
On Monday, authorities announced the evacuation order issued for resident near the fire had been lifted. Residents returning to their homes were still urged to remain cautious in the area near the fire.
Sam Davis Road Fire
The fire that burned through 559 acres in Swain County has been 100% contained, Swain County Emergency Management said in its final update Wednesday morning.
All evacuation orders for the area have been lifted. Officials are, however, still asking residents to avoid the fire area and any affected roads unless they are a resident. Flying drones in the area is still now allowed since they could interfere with any ongoing efforts.
Officials said smoke is still likely in some areas.
The U.S. Forest Service has assumed management of the fire, officials said in the statement. The cause is still under investigation.
