Last Updated on March 30, 2026 11:29 am
A wildfire in Wilkes County more than doubled in size overnight, growing from 140 acres to 350 acres, while the Elk Park Fire in Avery County was declared 100 percent contained Monday morning — the most significant developments as multiple wildfires continue burning across the High Country region.
Avery County — Elk Park Fire: 100% Contained
Avery County Emergency Management confirmed Monday morning that the Elk Park Fire is 100 percent contained, following communication with the NC Forest Service. The fire burned approximately 30 acres.
Some smoldering will continue in areas and is being monitored. Residents should expect to see and smell smoke for several more days. The statewide burn ban remains in effect, and Emergency Management is asking residents to continue abiding by it.
Avery County Emergency Management will host a Wildfire Prevention Night on Tuesday, March 31 at the Avery County Agricultural Center. The event will cover what residents can do to protect their homes and property. Food trucks and activities for children will be available.
Wilkes County — 350 Acres, 5% Contained
The largest active wildfire in the High Country region grew dramatically overnight. The Wilkes County fire, tracked as incident 2602004895, reached 350 acres with only 5 percent containment as of a 7:30 a.m. Monday update — up from 140 acres and zero percent containment Sunday evening.
A second, smaller Wilkes County fire, incident 2602004903, remains at 45 acres and 15 percent containment.
McDowell County — 175 Acres, 0% Contained
A 175-acre wildfire in McDowell County remains at zero percent containment as of Sunday evening. Mitchell County Emergency Management has advised that smoke from McDowell County fires may be visible in the Grassy Creek and Spruce Pine areas.
Mitchell County — Poplar Fire: 80% Contained
The Poplar Fire in Mitchell County continues to hold at 80 percent containment at 350 acres in the Appalachian Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest. The fire has been burning since March 23 and is located approximately one mile north of Poplar. Twenty-nine personnel remain assigned to the fire.
The fire is burning in an area heavily affected by Hurricane Helene, where downed trees have contributed to increased wildfire intensity. Smoke may remain visible from the communities of Poplar, Erwin, and surrounding areas. The Appalachian Trail near Indian Grave Gap (NOBO mile 352.9) remains impacted. A Temporary Flight Restriction is in effect over the fire area — no drones or aircraft are permitted.
Burn Ban and Fire Danger
The NC Forest Service statewide burn ban remains in effect for all 100 North Carolina counties until further notice. All open burning is illegal under the ban regardless of whether a permit was previously issued. Violations carry a $100 fine plus $183 in court costs. Anyone responsible for a fire may also be liable for suppression costs.
For air quality information, visit fire.airnow.gov. Call 911 to report any wildfire activity.
📋 NC Forest Service | Avery County Emergency Management | Mitchell County Emergency Management
