
A rapidly spreading wildfire has forced evacuations in McDowell County, North Carolina, as strong winds and dry conditions fuel the flames. The Crooked Creek Fire, burning near Old Fort, has already scorched 250 acres and was only 15% contained as of Wednesday night, emergency officials said.
Fire crews say the blaze ignited when a fallen tree brought down a power line, sparking flames that quickly spread through dry vegetation left behind by Hurricane Helene. With wind gusts reaching up to 50 mph, the fire has moved at a dangerous pace, prompting emergency services to issue evacuation orders for affected areas.
Praying for Western North Carolina. Floods, now fire. The devil never stops. https://t.co/Ls1HnUQjcu
— Red Lens Nation (@RedLensNation) January 30, 2025
A shelter has been set up at a local church for those forced to leave their homes. Officials have confirmed that several outbuildings have been destroyed, but no injuries have been reported. Firefighters are focusing on protecting structures and preventing further spread as they work to establish containment lines.
🚨#BREAKING: Absolutely TERRIFYING aerial footage of the #CrookedCreekFire in Western North Carolina.
Fire is at 69 acres and spreading out of control!
h/t: Spartan Photography WNC pic.twitter.com/MKaPib3aNY
— Matt Van Swol (@matt_vanswol) January 29, 2025
Earlier in the day, the North Carolina Forest Service had warned residents of increased wildfire risk due to dry air, gusty winds, and ongoing drought conditions. Despite efforts to manage the situation, the fire remains difficult to control, with strong winds continuing to feed the flames.
An "out of control" wildfire in NC burning near Old Fort is forcing evacuations, according to the McDowell County Emergency Management Administration. The 150-acre fire has 0% containment
Please pray for North Carolina 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/A0bSqf1SKj
— ShotGunBonnie (@ShotGun_Bonnie) January 29, 2025
Two smaller fires have also been reported in McDowell County, with the North Fork Fire and Watson Place Fire both burning in the Marion area. Authorities have not provided details on their size or containment status, but additional firefighting crews have been deployed.
The wildfire in McDowell County #NorthCarolina is being picked up on doppler radar near Greenville, SC.
Smoke can just barely be made out on visible satellite too.#ncwx #WeatherOnThe1s pic.twitter.com/eEouFI7sQT
— Tom Meiners (@tommeinerstv) January 29, 2025
The fires have added another layer of hardship for the region, which has been struggling to rebuild since Hurricane Helene caused widespread devastation in September. Many residents who lost their homes in the storm are now facing another crisis as the fires threaten the area.