National Forests in North Carolina

U.S. Forest Service News Release

Media Contact: Jamie Keller

202-505-0674

[email protected]

www.fs.usda.gov/nfsnc

Clear Creek Fire and Locust Cove #2 Fire Updates

December 5, 2023

Nebo, NC- Firefighters made substantial progress in containing the Clear Creek Fire and Locust Cove #2 Fire over the previous few days. The fires are currently burning approximately two miles from each other on the Grandfather Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest in the Sunnyvale area of McDowell County.  

The Clear Creek Fire is estimated at 124 acres and 70% containment. Containment has increased, with recent rain helping crews secure firelines. Firefighters focused on securing containment along the ridgeline yesterday. Crews today are focused on monitoring and treating any hotspots close to containment lines, and falling dead trees near lines. There are currently 30 personnel working the fire.

The Locust Cove #2 Fire has burned approximately 180 acres with 50% containment. Yesterday hand crews built containment lines in the last area that was unlined, on the east side of the fire. Crews today are focused on improving containment lines and monitoring to ensure those lines hold. There are currently 40 personnel working the fire.

The interior of both fires continues to hold heat, but smoke and active fire have decreased. A drone using infrared imaging will fly over both fires to locate areas of high heat. Smoke from both fires has mostly lifted, but anyone traveling N.C. 80 (Buck Creek Road) should continue to exercise caution, watching out for fire vehicles and allowing crews to work safely in the area.



Both fires are being managed under unified command between the U.S. Forest Service and the N.C. Forest Service. The cause of both fires is under investigation.