ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Firefighters and aircraft are responding to a wildfire that broke out Tuesday afternoon on the Pisgah Ranger District, about 4 miles northwest of Pisgah Forest, near State Highway 276.
The U.S. Forest Service said the fire, named the Looking Glass Fire, is still emerging, and the exact size is unknown. The area contains heavy downed debris and dead trees from Tropical Storm Helene, which could fuel the flames.
For public safety, several trails and forest roads have been closed, including:
- Looking Glass Rock Trail and trailhead
- FS475 Davidson Road
- FS475B Headwaters Road and associated trails accessed from this road
Officials urged visitors to stay out of all closure areas. Smoke and emergency vehicles may also impact traffic along State Highway 276, and drivers are advised to use caution.