News

County urges voluntary evacuation in areas near Polk wildfires

By Lightning Reports, Published: March 23, 2025

Henderson County is facing smoky conditions from wildfires that are covering 2,300 acres in Polk County, the Henderson County Sheriff's Office said Sunday.

"These conditions may persist for several days, depending on the direction of prevailing air currents," the advisory said. "It's important to note that there is no immediate danger to residents of Henderson County. We kindly ask that you refrain from calling 911 to report these smoky conditions."

Henderson County emergency management is recommending voluntary evacuations of residents in the Laurel Mountain View Road and Boulder View Road areas of the county. Henderson County has opened an emergency shelter at the Parks & Recreation Athletics and Activity Center, 708 S. Grove St.

The N.C. Forest Service is hosting a community meeting at 2 p.m. today at the Womack Building, 40 Courthouse Street, Columbus NC 28722 to discuss the Black Cove, Deep Wood and Fish Hook fires. A shelter was opened at 75 Carmel Lane, Columbus.
The N.C. Forest Service, Polk County Emergency Management and more than 50 fire departments across the state are fighting the three fires. Fire departments are focusing on structure protection, while the N.C. Forest Services is focusing on putting in fire lines. There were no reported injuries.

Black Cove Fire

The N.C. Forest Service estimates the fire is 1,239 acres and is 0% contained. The Forest Service said Sunday there have been a total of 1 home destroyed, 2 structures damaged and 1 outbuilding destroyed. The cause of the fire was a downed power line.

Deep Woods Fire

The Forest Service estimates the fire is 1,802 acres and is 0% contained. There have been a total of 1 home destroyed, 2 structures damaged and 1 outbuilding destroyed. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Fish Hook Fire

The Forest Service estimates the fire is 199 acres and is 50% contained. There have been a total of 3 homes destroyed, 1 garage destroyed and 1 other structure damaged. The cause of the fire was a downed power line.