A series of wildfires are rapidly spreading across western North Carolina, exacerbated by high temperatures, strong winds, and low humidity in an area already affected by Hurricane Helen. The North Carolina Forest Service noted the significant fuel available, as fallen leaves and trees from the hurricane have intensified the fires. A state of emergency has been declared in South Carolina as well, where wildfires are also expanding, prompted by the same environmental conditions. Evacuations have been ordered in certain areas, particularly in Polk County, North Carolina, affecting around 20,000 people, while air quality alerts have been issued due to unhealthy conditions.
As of Sunday, the Black Cove fire and Deep Woods fire in North Carolina are still uncontrolled, with thousands of acres burned, and some homes have been destroyed. Approximately 249 firefighting personnel are working to contain the blazes. In South Carolina, two major wildfires, Table Rock Fire and Persimmon Ridge Fire, are causing significant concerns, leading to a statewide burn ban and mandatory evacuations for residents in affected areas. Firefighting efforts include aerial support with helicopters dropping water to control the fires. A cold front expected to bring rain this week may offer some relief to firefighters, though overall rainfall forecasts remain low.
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