A significant mountain fire near Old Fort, North Carolina, has prompted evacuation orders for residents in Marion due to its rapid spread, fueled by strong winds and fallen trees igniting power lines. As of Wednesday, the fire has burned approximately 200 acres and is only 5% contained, with authorities describing it as “very dangerous.” Residents are advised to evacuate specific nearby areas, and an emergency shelter has been set up at the First Baptist Church in Old Fort. Additionally, a second smaller fire is also reported in McDowell County, but no evacuation orders are currently in place for that incident. Authorities encourage outdoor activities to cease due to the high fire risk. Safety measures and road closures are being enforced as emergency crews work to manage the fires.
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