ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Spring wildfire season is intensifying across North Carolina, with hundreds of fires reported in recent days and officials warning that most are being caused by human activity despite a statewide burn ban.
The North Carolina Forest Service said it has responded to 626 wildfires since March 20. At least 114 of those fires ignited after a statewide ban on open burning took effect at 6 p.m. March 28.
Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said the continued fire activity underscores the urgency of the restrictions.
“The fact that we’ve had more than 100 new fire ignitions during a statewide ban on open burning should reinforce the sense of urgency,” Troxler said. “Not a single one of the wildfires that have started since March 29 were the result of a lightning strike or natural ignition source.”
Officials say that means nearly all recent fires are human-caused, with debris burning remaining the leading source.
Following the burn ban, the Forest Service canceled nearly 18,000 digital burn permits issued in the 30 days prior. The agency also suspended issuing new permits, as required under state law. Officials noted the total does not include permits issued in person.
“While burn bans reduce the number of wildfires, burn bans do not prevent them from happening,” Troxler said. “Careless debris burning continues to be the leading cause of wildfire in this state.”
Local officials echoed the warning. Buncombe County Government said the ban, issued because of low humidity, gusty winds and dry conditions, applies to all open burning, including campfires, yard debris and land-clearing burns. The only exceptions are for approved grills used for food preparation.
The county said the restrictions will remain in place until further notice and reminded residents that open burning is never allowed within municipal limits.
Meanwhile, crews continue to make progress on an active wildfire in Western North Carolina. The U.S. Forest Service reported Tuesday evening that the Jumping Branch Fire in the Pisgah National Forest had reached 30 percent containment and expanded to 275 acres.
Firefighters are expected to continue working overnight, while smoke may settle into low-lying areas and reduce visibility. Drivers were advised to avoid parts of N.C. 80 near the Buck Creek area.