Multiple wildfires are burning across Polk County, North Carolina, prompting mandatory evacuations, firefighting efforts from across state lines, and a statewide burn ban as of March 21, 2025. With zero containment reported for all three major fires, residents and emergency services are bracing for a difficult fight ahead.
Three Active Fires and Growing
Fire officials have confirmed three major wildfires currently threatening homes and wildlife in the region:
1. Black Cove Fire
- Location: Near Green River Cove Road in Green River Game Land
- Size: 583 acres
- Containment: 0%
- Cause: Downed power line
- Evacuations: None yet, but officials are monitoring closely
2. Deep Woods Fire
- Location: Piney Mountain Community (Deep Woods Lane)
- Size: 332 acres
- Containment: 0%
- Cause: Under investigation
- Mandatory Evacuations Issued For:
- Deepwoods Lane
- Piney Gate Road
- Gamelands Trail
- Volley Way
- Oakview Lane
- Moonshine Trace
- Wesley Lane
- Charity Branch Drive
- Windsong Lane
- Piney Overlook Lane
- Shelter Opened At: Polk County Shelter, 75 Carmel Lane, Columbus, NC
3. Fish Hook Fire
- Location: Lake Adger community
- Size: 150 acres
- Containment: 0%
- Cause: Under investigation
- Mandatory Evacuations Issued For:
- Lake Adger (Jackson to Highland Lane)
- Parkway North Road
- North Park Lane
- North Boundary Road
- North Martin Lane
- Shelter Opened At: Polk County Shelter, 75 Carmel Lane, Columbus, NC
Crews Battling the Blazes
Firefighters from across North Carolina and neighboring states, including South Carolina, have joined the effort. Crews are working 12-hour shifts in difficult terrain, with dry conditions and high winds making containment efforts extremely challenging.
“These are steep, remote areas, and the fires are moving fast,” one official said. “Our top priority is protecting lives and getting people out safely.”
Helicopters and air tankers have been deployed to assist ground crews, and officials warn the fires could grow quickly without significant rainfall.
Statewide Burn Ban Enforced
The North Carolina Forest Service issued a statewide burn ban on March 21, prohibiting all open burning until further notice. The move aims to prevent new fires from starting as fire danger remains extremely high across the state.
What You Should Know
- If you live in the affected areas, evacuate immediately when ordered. Don’t wait.
- Monitor official sources like local emergency management, fire departments, and trusted news outlets.
- Avoid all open flames or outdoor burning, even if not under direct threat.
- Stay clear of fire zones, which are dangerous and need to remain accessible to first responders.
As of now, all three wildfires remain uncontained, and officials warn that conditions could worsen before they improve. Continued cooperation from residents and swift action by fire crews will be critical in preventing further loss of life or property.
For those affected, Polk County officials continue to provide shelter and updates. Residents are urged to follow all safety guidance and prepare for a prolonged firefight in the days to come.