Full Notification

Jumping Branch Fire Update for April 3, 2026
(Last update on this fire unless conditions change)

Jumping Branch Fire
Grandfather Ranger District, Pisgah National Forest
Location: 8 miles northwest of Marion, North Carolina
Date Reported: 3/29/2026 Cause: Improperly discarded smoking material
Size: 420 acres Total Personnel: 8 Containment: 95%

As a result of successful suppression actions taken by firefighters, containment on the Jumping Branch Fire increased to 95%. As containment increases, fire crews are being released or reassigned to new wildfires. This will be the last daily update for the Jumping Branch Fire unless conditions change.

As downed branches and other heavy forest fuels continue to smolder well within the interior of the fire area, smoke will be visible from the communities of Buck Creek, Marion, and surrounding areas.

The cause of the wildfire has been determined to be improperly discarded smoking material that occurred on private property Sunday, March 29. 

The Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) that was over the Jumping Branch Fire area has been lifted as of April 3, 2026.

Air Quality
Smoke may affect nearby communities and roadways, especially in the evening and morning commutes. Use caution if driving in the area. For air quality information, visit fire.airnow.gov.

Weather
Mostly sunny and warm conditions are forecast over the fire area for most of the day. High temperatures will hover around 80 degrees. Relative humidity levels will be near 50% and the winds will be light.