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Zero evacuation orders in effect

 

POLK COUNTY—A damp Monday, March 31 brought relief to firefighters on the ground, however, the North Carolina Forest Service continues to work on the containment of the Black Cove Complex wildfire. 

The Black Cove fire is 3,502 acres in size and is now 93% contained with zero mandatory evacuations. The Deep Woods fire is 3,969 acres in size and 60% contained with zero mandatory evacuations. At 199 acres in size the Fish Hook fire is now 100 % contained with zero mandatory evacuations. 

Currently, there are zero mandatory evacuations in effect for Polk County and preparedness zones continue to be downgraded for residents. 

Holbert Cove Road and Green River Cove Road are currently open to residents only. 

The forest service is asking residents that as areas and roads reopen to drive slowly in the fire-affected areas as crews are working along some of these lines, either on foot or with heavy equipment. Acreage numbers may shift as the assessment abilities improve.

During the next few days, firefighters will search along the edges of the Black Cove fire and the Deep Woods fire for embers and flames hiding in hollow trees or dry logs, ensuring no possibility of the fire’s escape when dry weather returns. 

Fire crews are also being tasked with repairing and rehabbing dozer lines and creek crossings. 

The forest service is thanking the community for its donations and is recommending that anyone who wishes to still contribute make a monetary donation to the Polk County local fire departments.

The Polk County Emergency Shelter, previously located at 75 Carmel Ln Columbus,  and the laundry and shower facilities, that were located at 75 Carmel Ln Columbus, have both been closed as there are no longer any mandatory evacuation orders in effect. If further sheltering is needed, please contact the Polk County administration office at 828-894-3301.

A burn ban remains in effect for the state of North Carolina and Polk County. Residents are asked to refrain from any burning activities until the ban is lifted.