Full Notification

North Fork Fire Grows to 200 Acres, 20% Contained

Smoke is impacting communities in McDowell County

NEBO, N.C. (Jan. 30, 2025) – Firefighters are continuing burn out operations this evening on the North Fork Fire, which has grown to 200 acres and is now 20% contained. 80 firefighters are responding to the fire which is burning in areas of heavy damage from Hurricane Helene near the Woodlawn Community in McDowell County, NC. The North Fork Fire is located east of Highway 221 and south of American Thread Road along the cliffs above the North Fork of the Catawba River in the U.S. Forest Service Grandfather Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest.

Smoke from the North Fork Fire is impacting communities in McDowell County. With hurricane damage, the amount of downed fuels in the forest that are burning are contributing to more smoke than past wildfires in the area. Prior to Hurricane Helene, most fuels were small twigs and leaves. Now, some large fuels, such as big, downed trees, are burning for longer, meaning extended smoke impacts. Additional fires in the county are also contributing to regional smoke. Cloudy conditions are not allowing smoke to disperse, meaning higher levels are staying in our communities. 

Forecasted Air Quality Indexes for the region are predicted to be moderate overnight into tomorrow. However, localized impacts may be more hazardous especially in low lying areas near North Cove, Woodlawn, Marion, and Lake James. Smoke sensitive populations (children, older adults, and those with respiratory conditions) should limit time outdoors until conditions improve. 

The Mountains to Sea Trail between Hwy 221 and FSR 106, Bald Mountain Road (FSR 150) and Graveyard Mountain Road (FSR 149) remain closed for the safety of the public and firefighters. Recreationists are asked to avoid the area. 

No structures are threatened at this time, and no evacuations are in place. The North Carolina Forest Service, North Carolina Emergency Management, McDowell County Emergency Management and local fire departments from Woodlawn and North Cove are assisting with structure protection. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.