High Fire Danger Alert Issued for Western North Carolina Amid Growing Wildfire Risks

Despite snow-covered landscapes in parts of North Carolina, the NC Forest Service has issued a high fire danger alert for western counties this week, warning of the increased risk due to drought and dry conditions.

Posted

The North Carolina Forest Service has issued a high fire danger alert for much of Western North Carolina as dry weather, persistent drought, and storm debris have heightened the risk of wildfires across the region. Despite winter conditions in some areas, fire danger continues to rise, with the situation expected to intensify throughout the week.

Counties Under High Fire Danger

The alert currently applies to the following counties:

  • Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Macon, Swain, Haywood, Transylvania, Henderson, Madison, Buncombe, Polk, Rutherford, McDowell, Burke, Caldwell, Alexander, Wilkes, Surry, and Stokes.

Fire risk is projected to increase and spread eastward as dry air and windy conditions persist, according to state forestry officials.

Why Fire Danger Remains High in Winter

Although snow and ice blanket some parts of the state, other areas have experienced minimal precipitation from recent storms. Long-term drought conditions, particularly in Eastern North Carolina, have left soil, forest duff, and swamp systems drier than normal.

Cold, dry air has exacerbated the problem, rapidly drying "one-hour fuels," such as grass, pine needles, and small twigs. These light fuels can ignite quickly and spread fires under the right conditions. The leftover debris from Hurricane Helene, which devastated parts of the state in late 2024, adds additional fire fuel, further increasing the risk.

📬 Stay Informed

Join our community for insights on energy and sustainability leadership.

Sign Up Here

Fires in Los Angeles County 

While North Carolina faces heightened fire risks, California is actively battling significant wildfires, underscoring how quickly conditions can escalate.

  • Palisades Fire: As of January 13, 2025, at 6:00 PM ET, this fire in Los Angeles County has burned 23,713 acres and is 13% contained.
  • Eaton Fire: Covering 14,117 acres, this fire is currently 27% contained.

These fires have resulted in 24 fatalities, with 16 people still missing. 

FEMA Assistance and Housing Concerns in North Carolina

Adding to the challenges in North Carolina, FEMA recently ended temporary housing assistance for about 3,500 families displaced by Hurricane Helene. Many of these families remain without permanent housing solutions.

While Governor Josh Stein secured an extension through January 14 due to a winter storm, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell emphasized the need for displaced residents to maintain communication with the agency. "We need to work with [survivors] individually to ensure we're providing the right resources," she said. Survivors are encouraged to call the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362 for further assistance.

Safety Precautions and Recommendations

Residents in high fire danger areas are urged to:

  • Avoid outdoor burning during periods of elevated fire risk.
  • Check local weather conditions and fire danger updates through the NC Forest Service website.
  • Contact local NCFS county rangers for guidance on safe burning practices.

Environment + Energy Leader