Evacuations underway in Helene-ravaged North Carolina town after wildfire starts
MCDOWELL COUNTY, N.C. - At least two wildfires have broken out near towns that were devastated by Hurricane Helene.
Evacuations are in place for people living along several roads in Old Fort, North Carolina, due to an 80-acre fire known as the Crooked Creek Fire.
The McDowell County Office of Emergency Management said the fire was started by a tree on a downed power line.
The Crooked Creek Fire is 0% contained and driven by wind.
The fire has reportedly jumped across Bat Cave Road in Old Fort. No injuries have been reported from the fire, McDowell County Emergency Management said. The fire has destroyed "multiple" outbuildings, the agency said.
A second wildfire started shortly after the first one north of Marion, North Carolina. According to McDowell County Emergency Management, no evacuations are in place for that fire.
It is 2 acres and 0% contained, according to the North Carolina Forest Service.
The North Carolina Forest Service warned residents this morning that conditions would be ideal for fire weather but should improve this evening. Low humidity and gusty winds create the perfect mixture for rapid fire spread.
Old Fort was devastated by Hurricane Helene in September. The town is still working to rebuild after flooding destroyed much of Western North Carolina.
Firefighters continue to work on establishing containment lines and structure protection for multiple homes in the area.
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