What is the name and location of the wildfires?

As of April 1, 2025, three major wildfires were nearing containment or fully contained in western North Carolina: the Black Cove, Deep Woods, and Fish Hook fires (1). They had burned across seven miles of mountains in Polk County, and affecting nearby Henderson County (2).

The fires were in a mountainous region impacted by Hurricane Helene, including forests and woodlands near Green River Gorge, Holbert Cove, and Lake Adger.

Dry conditions across the Carolinas created an elevated fire risk. High winds were fanning the flames, complicating containment efforts.

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The fires were impacting Polk County and Henderson County, with mandatory evacuations in areas near Green River Cove Road, Big Hungry Road, Holbert Cove Road, and Fox Paw Lane.

The town of Saluda was also at risk, as the Black Cove Fire was burning less than two miles away. Other nearby communities are Columbus and Mill Spring.

What is the current containment status of the wildfire?

As of April 1, 2025, the Black Cove Fire is 93% contained and has burned over 3,502 acres (3). The Deep Woods Fire is 60% contained and has burned approximately 3,969 acres. The Fish Hook Fire is 100% contained and has burned 199 acres.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for multiple areas, including:

• Green River Cove Road (1091–1528 addresses)
• Lady Slipper Trail, Big Hungry Road, Spurgeon Cove Lane, English Heifer Cove, Deer Trail, and Scarlets Mountain Road
• Holbert Cove Road (5079–7625 addresses) and Fox Paw Lane

Voluntary evacuation notices were sent to residents in the Laurel Mountain View Road and Boulder View Road in Henderson County. Evacuation orders were lifted for areas near the Fish Hook Fire (4).

A Red Cross Shelter has been set up at 75 Carmel Lane in Columbus, North Carolina. Additionally, a burn ban is in effect throughout North Carolina due to hazardous fire conditions.

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

• Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
• Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
• Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
• Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
• Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.

As of April 1, 2025, the Black Cove fire is at 93% contained, the Deep Woods fire is at 60% contained and the Fish Hook fire is 100% contained.