ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Firefighters are battling multiple wildfires across Western North Carolina as dry, windy conditions heighten the risk of fire spread, officials said Friday.
Nix Creek Road Fire
The Nix Creek Road Fire near Lake Logan, southeast of Waynesville, has burned roughly 40 acres and is 20 percent contained, the U.S. Forest Service reported. Firefighters, working in unified command with the N.C. Forest Service, used aerial support overnight to prevent further growth and have completed firelines around the perimeter. Crews will continue securing the fire’s edge toward full containment.
Smoke may be visible along Highway 215 and surrounding areas. Motorists are urged to use caution and watch for fire personnel. Air quality updates are available at fire.airnow.gov.
Poplar Fire
The Poplar Fire, about a mile north of Poplar, North Carolina, has burned 350 acres and is 60 percent contained. Firefighters increased containment by 20 percent on Thursday through continued patrols and heat suppression along the fire’s southeast perimeter near Poplar Road.
The fire is burning in an area heavily affected by Hurricane Helene, where numerous downed trees have contributed to wildfire intensity. Road closures at Rock Creek Road/TN 395 and NC 197/Poplar Creek Road have been lifted, but drivers are still advised to slow down and use caution.
The Appalachian Trail near Indian Grave Gap is impacted, and hikers are advised to follow posted signs and directions from fire crews. A temporary flight restriction is in place to keep drones and aircraft out of the area.
Tarkiln Ridge Fire
The Tarkiln Ridge Fire, five miles northwest of Hayesville, has burned about 400 acres and is 40 percent contained. Lightning sparked the fire on March 23, and crews, supported by helicopters, have stopped its growth along the perimeter. Ground crews continue mop-up operations along previously constructed dozer lines.
The fire is burning in an area where prescribed burns earlier this year reduced the risk of spread. Leatherwood Road remains closed, and residents are urged to avoid the area. Smoke may affect nearby communities, especially during morning and evening commutes.
Weather and fire risk
Meteorologists have issued a Red Flag Warning in effect Saturday from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. for much of Western North Carolina, including Avery, Buncombe, Haywood and surrounding counties. Winds are expected from the northeast at 10 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 40 mph and humidity as low as 13 percent.
In response, the Buncombe County Fire Marshal’s Office has issued an open burn ban effective Saturday, March 28, 2026, due to extreme fire danger conditions, including low humidity, gusty winds, and dry fuels. The ban applies to all open burning, including yard waste, debris, and land-clearing fires.
Exemptions: Fires in pits, barbecue grills, cooking fires, warming fires, chimineas, or outdoor stoves smaller than three feet in diameter are allowed. The ban does not affect NC Forest Service-permitted, controlled, and attended fires more than 100 feet from structures. For permit validation or complaints on open burning 100 feet or more from structures, contact the NC Forest Service at 828-667-5211 or 919-857-4801.
Officials urge residents to exercise extreme caution and avoid any activity that could start a wildfire until conditions improve.