ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Fire crews continued working Wednesday to contain the Looking Glass Fire in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest, officials said.
The wildfire, reported April 7 about four miles northwest of Pisgah Forest near Looking Glass Rock off N.C. Highway 276, has burned an estimated 30 acres and was 15 percent contained as of Wednesday morning. Officials said about 30 personnel are assigned to the incident.
The U.S. Forest Service determined the fire was caused by a downed powerline. The blaze is burning in an area impacted by Tropical Storm Helene, where fallen trees and debris are contributing to elevated wildfire risk.
On Tuesday, crews used aerial resources, including two Super Scooper aircraft and a Chinook helicopter, to drop water on the fire. Firefighters also established control lines, helping reach the current level of containment.
Crews on Wednesday are focused on extinguishing remaining hot spots and strengthening containment lines. If weather and fuel conditions allow, firefighters will work to reduce unburned fuels between the main fire and established control lines to limit further spread.
Several closures remain in place for public and firefighter safety. Fish Hatchery Road (Forest Service Road 475) and Forest Service Road 475B, also known as Headwaters Road, are closed to all traffic. The Looking Glass Rock Trailhead and all trailheads along those roads are also closed.
Officials urged motorists traveling along Highway 276 to remain alert for smoke and emergency vehicles operating in the area.
The forecast calls for a high near 61 degrees with critically low humidity and gusty east winds, conditions that could increase fire activity.
Smoke may impact nearby communities and roadways, particularly during morning and evening commutes. Drivers are advised to use caution in areas with reduced visibility.