Published Wednesday, November 20, 2013 at 7:54 am

SEE MORE PHOTOS AT BOTTOM OF POST

Update: Thursday afternoon

Person Sought in Connection with Table Rock Wildfire in Linville Gorge, See Photo of Individual

Nov. 21, 2013. U.S. Forest Service law enforcement officials have released a photo of a man who may have information concerning the wildfire in the Linville Gorge. The agency asks for the public’s help in identifying the individual.

Investigators would like to speak with this person who was in the Table Rock picnic area on Veterans Day. It is believed that he camped in the Table Rock picnic area over Veterans Day and may have information that would aid the investigation. This person was with a group of other campers and may play the guitar. There was a truck in the area believed to be a white, 2007-2009 Dodge Ram truck, possibly a sport model.

Persons with information concerning the person, group of people, or vehicle at the Table Rock picnic area on Veterans Day are asked to call Law Enforcement Officer Jason Crisp at 828-442-2470.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Fire investigators are looking for any information or observations that may help determine the cause of the fire. A reward may be offered for substantial information.

The Table Rock wildfire has burned approximately 2,600 acres in the Linville Gorge in the Grandfather Ranger District, Pisgah National Forest.

For more ongoing updates and photos of the fire, click here.

Minimal Fire Activity Expected Today, Community Meeting Scheduled for This Evening

Update: Thursday morning

Nov. 21, 2013. The Table Rock Fire is expected to have little activity today due to increased humidity light winds and sparse fuels in the areas where there is active fire.

Yesterday’s small burnout operation was successful in removing most of the fuels from the 100-acre block between the active fire Chimney Branch to the south and Linville River to the west. Observations from the helicopter indicate that the Chimney Branch drainage is holding fire progression to the south. Today firefighters will actively monitor that area to make certain the fire does not spot over into unburned fuels south of Chimney Branch. Forecast winds for the next several days will keep any embers from this burnout within the black area of the fire.

Light winds and much higher humidity levels forecast for the next couple of days will limit fire growth potential.

Despite more favorable conditions to limit fire growth the combination of fog development and light winds may lead to highly reduced visibilities near the fire tonight through Friday morning. Persons driving through the area during those times should be alert for rapidly changing conditions and use extreme caution slow down and turn on headlights. A strong cold front will move through Saturday morning with sharply colder temperatures very windy conditions and much lower humidity levels through Sunday.

A Community Meeting is planned for this evening to inform neighboring communities about the processes and strategies used to identify and select fire suppression activities. There are many variables that must be considered before critical decisions are made in firefighting. The public is invited to join local US Forest Service officials and leaders from the Southern Area Type 2 Team for an opportunity to learn about the fire what has happened to date what actions are being considered and what factors will affect decisions relating to those actions.

Meeting details:

Where: Jonas Ridge Fire and Rescue Department8224 Buckeye Hollow Rd.Jonas Ridge NC 28641

When: Thursday November 21 2013 at 6:00 pm

For more information contact the Fire Information Center at 828-432-9817

The Table Rock wildfire which started November 12th is located in Linville Gorge on the Grandfather Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest.

Slight Increase in Fire Activity, Community Meeting Scheduled for Thursday

Update: Wednesday evening

Nov. 20, 2013. The Table Rock Fire showed some increased activity this morning in the area just north of Chimney Branch. A decision was made to burn the 100-acre block of unburned fuels between the active fire, Chimney Branch to the south, and Linville River to the west to strengthen the natural barriers and aid in slowing the fire’s southern progress. Today, weather conditions were optimal for completing the burnout in a safe manner. Ignition was accomplished using plastic spheres resembling ping-pong balls containing combustible chemicals. After being activated, the spheres were dropped from a helicopter-mounted aerial ignition machine into the specific areas targeted for burning. Forecast winds for the next several days will keep any embers from this burnout within the black area of the fire.

Weatherwise, light winds and much higher humidity levels will limit fire growth potential over the next couple of days. Despite more favorable conditions to limit fire growth, the combination of fog development and light winds may lead to highly reduced visibilities near the fire Thursday night and Friday morning. Persons driving through the area during those times should be alert for rapidly changing conditions and use extreme caution, slow down, and turn on headlights. A strong cold front will move through Saturdaymorning with sharply colder temperatures, very windy conditions, and much lower humidity levels through Sunday.

A Community Meeting is planned for tomorrow evening to inform neighboring communities about the processes and strategies used to identify and select fire suppression activities. There are many, many variables that must be considered before critical decisions are made in firefighting. The public is invited to join local US Forest Service officials and leaders from the Southern Area Type 2 Team for an opportunity to learn about the fire, what has happened to date, what actions are being considered, and what factors will affect decisions relating to those actions.

Meeting details:

Where:

Jonas Ridge Fire and Rescue Department

8224 Buckeye Hollow Rd.

Jonas Ridge, NC 28641

When: Thursday, November 21, 2013 6:00 pm

For more information, contact the Fire Information Center at 828-432-9817.

The Table Rock wildfire, which started November 12th, is located in Linville Gorge on Grandfather Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest.

For information on the latest road and trail closures, visit the National Forests in North Carolina website. Visitors should check the website before planning a trip to the gorge. Additional information and photos can also be found at the Incident Information System website http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/3752/.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Fire investigators are looking for any information or observations that may help determine the cause of the fire. A reward may be offered for substantial information and persons should contact Law Enforcement Officer Jason Crisp at 828-442-2470 or the Grandfather Ranger District at 828-652-2144.

Update: Wednesday at 10 a.m.

Continued Slow Progression Expected on Table Rock Fire

Nov. 20, 2013. Wednesday morning at 6:00 am, the Southern Area Type 2 Team assumed management responsibility for the Table Rock Fire. At morning briefing, Incident Commander Steve Parrish commended the work of the departing North Carolina Type 3 Team and reminded firefighters that we will continue to plan suppression strategies with firefighter and public safety as highest consideration.

Today’s plans are to actively monitor the fire’s expected continued slow progression, fortify containment lines, and mop up areas where the fire is no longer actively burning. However, fire suppression strategies are always flexible and must be adjusted as conditions change. Should the fire become more active due to weather, fuels, or other conditions changing, suppression activities would be adjusted accordingly.

Due to the inaccessibility of the active fire area, currently mapped containment lines are located approximately two miles south of the fire. One of those options, should the fire begin a rapid progression to the south, would be to burn out sections of the area between the active fire and the containment lines. Implementation of this option would require very specific conditions including wind direction, wind speed, smoke dispersion forecasts, temperature, and humidity. Those conditions are predicted to occur today, however, burnout operations are not planned for today unless the fire makes a major run to the south. With today’s predicted weather, no significant change in fire behavior is expected.

The Table Rock wildfire, which started November 12th, is located in Linville Gorge on Grandfather Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest. The fire is currently at 2,481 acres and 40 percent containment. There are 200 firefighters working on the fire.

For information on the latest road and trail closures, visit the National Forests in North Carolina website. Visitors should check the website before planning a trip to the gorge. Additional information and photos can also be found at the Incident Information System website http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/3752/.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Fire investigators are looking for any information or observations that may help determine the cause of the fire. A reward may be offered for substantial information and persons should contact Law Enforcement Officer Jason Crisp at 828-442-2470 or the Grandfather Ranger District at 828-652-2144.

Update: Tuesday at 8 p.m.

Team Transition on Table Rock Wildfire

Nov. 20, 2013. Management of the Table Rock fire has transferred from the North Carolina Type 3 Team to the Southern Area Type 2 Team effective Wednesday morning. The Type 2 Team will continue to operate under the same incident objectives, which is to provide for firefighter and public safety, provide for protection of surrounding communities adjacent to the fire, minimize environmental concerns related to operations, and manage the incident in the most efficient and cost effective manner commensurate with values at risk.

The change in Incident Management Team will be seamless for the public and firefighters, as they will continue to focus on suppression efforts and monitor the fire’s slow progression. Based on predicted weather patterns for the next week, the Team will actively monitor the fire, fortify containment lines, and evaluate longer term options. One of those options, should the fire begin a rapid progression to the south, would be to burn out sections of the area between the active fire and the containment lines. Implementation of this option would require very specific conditions including wind direction, wind speed, smoke dispersion forecasts, temperature, and humidity.

The Table Rock wildfire, which started Nov. 12, is located in the Linville Gorge on the Grandfather Ranger District, Pisgah National Forest. Size of the fire did not change today, covering 2,275 acres and 40 percent containment. There are 200 firefighters working on the fire.

Todays activities were directed toward construction of contingency lines and mop up of “hot spots” or sites of significant heat near the fireline. An infrared camera was used to identify areas of heat along containment lines. Most of the heat was interior, but some was located near the south flank where the spot over occurred. Crews hiked into that area today to assess options for containment. A helicopter made water drops on hot spots in order to reduce the potential for spread.

For information on the latest road and trail closures, visit the National Forests in North Carolina website. Visitors should check the website before planning a trip to the gorge. Additional information and photos can also be found at the Incident Information System website http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/3752/.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Fire investigators are looking for any information or observations that may help determine the cause of the fire. A reward may be offered for substantial information and persons should contact Law Enforcement Officer Jason Crisp at 828-442-2470 or the Grandfather Ranger District at 828-652-2144.

CLOSURES

All National Forest System lands roads and trails within the vicinity of the Table Rock Fire Pisgah National Forest generally any area in the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area east of the Linville River and more specifically described as follows:

FS Road 210 (aka Roses Creek Rd)

FS Road 21OB (Rich Cove Rd)

FS Road 99 (aka Table Rock (paved) Rd)

FS Road 118 (aka Back-Irish Creek Rd)

Trail 228 Pinch In

Trail 229 (aka Conley Cove)

Trail 231 (aka Linville Gorge Trail) from junction of Trail 229 south to terminus

Trail 232 (aka Brushy Ridge)

Trail 233 (aka Spence Ridge)

Trail 235 (aka Shortoff)

Trail 236 (aka Little Table Rock)

Trail 244 (Devil’s Hole) Table Rock Picnic Area

Trail 245 (aka Jonas Ridge)

Trail 247 (aka Rock Jock)

Trail 248 (aka Hawksbill)

Trail 440 Pinnacle Trail

Update: Tuesday at 11 a.m.

Nov. 19, 2013. Firefighters are making progress on containment lines for the Table Rock wildfire in the Linville Gorge. Recent rains have slowed progression of the fire, but concerns still exist over a section of uncontained line along the southern fire flank.

Crews continue to improve contingency lines along Forest Road 118 and the US Forest Service property line. There is still a large area of unburned fuels between the active fire and those lines. A concern is that fuels in those areas could re-ignite uncontained portions of the current fireline perimeter.

The strategy today is to monitor fire progression and ensure resources are in place if the fire moves south. Infrared aerial photos will be taken this morning to look for hot spots along the firelines. Patrols did notice an increase in heat yesterday as the winds picked up and fuels began to dry out.

Work will continue on structure protection within the Outward Bound Camp. Crews working with the Camp will reduce fuels around buildings and eliminate fire hazards. North Carolina Forest Service personnel are assisting with land owner contacts and providing advice on how to improve defensible space.

Fire size remains the same this morning, with 2,275 acres burned to date and 40 percent containment. No additional structures are threatened and no additional injuries or accidents to report. There are 193 personnel working on the fire and the Type 3 Incident Management Team will transition with the Type 2 Team throughout the day.

For information on the latest road and trail closures, visit the National Forests in North Carolina website. Visitors should check the website before planning a trip to the gorge. Additional information and photos can also be found at the Incident Information System website http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Fire investigators are looking for any information or observations that may help determine the cause of the fire. A reward may be offered for substantial information and persons should contact Law Enforcement Officer Jason Crisp at 828-442-2470 or the Grandfather Ranger District at 828-652-2144.

Update: Monday at 7 p.m.

Firefighters Continue to Work Containment Lines

Nov. 18, 2013. Firefighters spent the better part of the day constructing containment lines around the Table Rock fire, in the Linville Gorge. The fire that began on Tuesday, Nov. 12, in the Table Rock Picnic Area is still proving difficult to fully contain.

Close to a half inch of rain fell in the gorge over the weekend, but that was not enough to ease the minds of the North Carolina Type 3 Team who is tasked with suppressing the fire. There were isolated smokes in the gorge today, but just because there is no smoke does not mean there is no heat. The team expects there to be a steady increase in smoke over the next couple of days as the fuels start to dry out as a result of warmer weather. That could lead to the potential for embers to ignite unburned areas and allow the fire to burn across the drainage.

Fire crews focused on mop up and patrol around the Outward Bound camp, and worked with the property owners to improve their defensible space around individual structures. A dozer line was constructed around the facility last week, and the area was burned out as part of the mitigation measures. These additional measures will enhance the safety of the residents when they return.

There was no increase in fire acres today and the total still stands at 2,275 acres with 40 percent containment. No additional structures are threatened and no additional injuries or accidents to report. There are 193 personnel working on the fire and the transition to the Type 2 Incident Command Team begins tomorrow.

For information on the latest road and trail closures, visit the National Forests in North Carolina website. Visitors should check the website before planning a trip to the gorge.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation. However, fire investigators would appreciate talking with the group who were camping at Table Rock Picnic Area last Monday, Veteran’s Day. Investigators believe this group has information that would aid in the investigation. A reward may be offered for substantial information regarding this investigation and persons should contact Law Enforcement Officer Jason Crisp at 828-442-2470 or the Grandfather Ranger District at 828-652-2144.

Update: Monday at 12 p.m.

Rain Helps But Table Rock Fire Not Out

Nov. 18, 2013. The Linville Gorge area received about a half inch of rain yesterday, which included the area of the Table Rock wildfire. The fire that started about a week ago is still burning in the gorge on the Grandfather Ranger District, Pisgah National Forest. The fire started in the Table Rock Picnic Area and quickly moved south and east into surrounding terrain. The rain received yesterday was much needed as the area has seen dry conditions for the past few months.

However, this fire is not out and the warm, drying period over the next week could be a real test on new containment lines. Winds are expected to gust to 20 miles per hour today and fuels will quickly dry out under these conditions. The fire is located in a very remote area of the gorge that is extremely steep and rugged.

There are 193 fire personnel assisting with suppression efforts in the Linville Gorge. A 20 person hand crew from the Oklahoma Bureau of Indian Affairs joined the fire fighting forces today. The fire is still listed at 2,275 acres and 40 percent containment. One structure is located within the containment lines and may be threatened if the fire were to make a run to the south. Crews remain staged to the north at the Outward Bound camp to provide structure protection. Structure protection measures have been applied by fire crews assisted by the property owner. Only one minor vehicle accident which occurred within the first couple of days was reported.

The focus of today’s work is to construct containment lines and remove safety hazards, such as snags, within those lines that could compromise firefighter safety. Crews along the north end will patrol existing containment lines and mop up any “hot spots” they find near the lines. The large Type 1 helicopter that was reassigned over the weekend, but is available if bucket drops are needed for suppression. Smaller Type 2 and Type 3 helicopters remain on site for immediate response needs. The contingency plan for fire containment includes using Forest Service Road 118, old dozer lines along the Forest boundary to the south, and hand lines using trails near the river.

The North Carolina Type 3 Team assessed complexity of the fire over the weekend. Concerns regarding the steep terrain, lack of access, an increase in firefighters, multiple jurisdictions with the state becoming more involved, and predicted weather patterns for this week changed the complexity of the fire to a Type 2 incident. This complexity results in a change in command structure on the fire. The Southern Area Type 2 Team was ordered today and will transition with the Type 3 team tomorrow, and take command of the fire on Wednesday. This new team will bring with them additional resources to help in suppression efforts.

Several roads and trails remain closed in the Linville Gorge area. A complete list can be found on the National Forests in North Carolina website. Visitors should check the website before planning a trip to the gorge.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation. However, fire investigators would appreciate talking with the group who were camping at Table Rock Picnic Area last Monday, Veteran’s Day. Investigators believe this group has information that would aid in the investigation. A reward may be offered for substantial information regarding this investigation and persons should contact Law Enforcement Officer Jason Crisp at 828-442-2470 or the Grandfather Ranger District at 828-652-2144.

*Release from U.S. Forest Service

Update: Sunday at 10 a.m.

High Winds Expected Across Table Rock Wildfire Today

Nov. 17, 2013. Forest Service officials are worried about high winds today across the Linville Gorge, on the Grandfather Ranger District, affecting their ability to continue suppression efforts on the Table Rock wildfire. Officials do not anticipate that winds will push the fire beyond the new containment lines, but this event highlights their concerns that this fire is not out even with the rain over the weekend and expected rain in the forecast.

A storm front is expected to cross the area late today bringing some rain. The biggest concern is the wind, as it can bring down snags in the burn area. Firefighter safety is a concern with the Team, so crews have been pulled back until the front has passed and the wind danger has subsided. Crews and equipment will resume work on securing containment lines and cutting hazard trees once it is safe to do so.

Close to 140 fire fighters are working on containing the Table Rock fire that began late Monday or early Tuesday last week. The size of the fire is estimated at 2,275 acres and containment at 40 percent. One structure is threatened within the fire perimeter, on private land. Crews are working with the landowner on defensible space measures to protect those structures. One minor motor vehicle accident did occur on the incident.

Several roads and trails are closed in the Linville Gorge area. A complete list can be found on the National Forests in North Carolina website. Visitors should check the website before planning a trip to the gorge.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation. However, fire investigators would appreciate talking with the group who were camping at Table Rock Picnic Area last Monday, Veteran’s Day. Investigators believe this group has information that would aid in the investigation. A reward may be offered for substantial information regarding this investigation and persons should contact Law Enforcement Officer Jason Crisp at 828-442-2470 or the Grandfather Ranger District at 828-652-2144.

*Release from U.S. Forest Service

Update: Saturday at 7 p.m.

Spot Fire Changes Focus of Firefighter’s Efforts

Nov. 16, 2013. The 40 acre spot fire located yesterday south of the Chimney Gap area will continue to be a priority. Even though the fire did receive light precipitation it is not enough to extinguish the fire. Suppression efforts are still required. Due to the rugged inaccessibility of this area the possibility of continued spread is high. This will be the focus of the firefighting efforts for the next few days. The firefighting strategy for this area will be using helicopter bucket drops and indirect attack. Crews will begin line preparation efforts during the day, which includes mechanical line construction and removal of safety hazards such as snags. One structure has been identified on a parcel of private land within the new containment area. The team will be working with State and local cooperators to ensure adequate alert and protection measures are in place. The northern and western divisions are holding firm. Crews will continue to monitor and mop up these areas.

A cold front is expected to push through the area Sunday night into early Monday in the area of the Table Rock wildfire in the Linville Gorge on the Grandfather Ranger District. Areas of fog in the morning mixed with smoke from the fire will result in visibility one quarter mile or less at times in the morning. Showers are likely with a chance of drizzle in the morning and then heavier showers are likely in the afternoon. The Incident Commander advises that the public should adjust their driving speed and following distances accordingly, especially on Hwy 181 between the intersection of Fish Hatchery Rd north to the Jonas Ridge area due to low visibility and high fire vehicle activity.

The size of the fire is estimated at 2,275 acres with 40% containment. The reduction in the acreage figure is the result of more accurate mapping during the last reporting period. Additional resources have been brought in to aid in the firefighting effort bringing the total number of firefighters to 140 personnel, with resources coming from 10 states across the country.

In response to concerns for public safety, several of the roads and trails in the Linville Gorge remain closed. If you have recreational plans in the gorge for next week you should first check the National Forests in North Carolina website for the latest closure information.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation. However, fire investigators would appreciate talking with the group who were camping at Table Rock Picnic Area last Monday, Veteran’s Day. Investigators believe this group has information that would aid in the investigation. A reward may be offered for substantial information regarding this investigation and persons should contact Law Enforcement Officer Jason Crisp at 828-442-2470 or the Grandfather Ranger District at 828-652-2144.

*Release from U.S. Forest Service

Update: Saturday morning

Team Evaluates Options for Control Strategies, Concerns Over Firefighter Safety

Nov. 16, 2013. Due to concerns over firefighter safety, The North Carolina Type 3 Team is evaluating options for controlling the Table Rock wildfire in the Linville Gorge on the Grandfather Ranger District. “Even though recent rains have assisted fire fighters in their suppression efforts, this wildfire is definitely not out,” stated Deputy Incident Commander Steve Little.

Firefighting crews will continue to work on a spot fire that was discovered yesterday in the early morning hours. The wildfire breached containment lines in the Chimney Gap area. The spot over had burned more than 40 acres before it was discovered during the morning reconnaissance flight. The Team has identified several contingencies and different management objectives to implement the suppression strategy they had identified earlier in the week. No homes or structures are threatened by this new development, but the Team will be working with State and local cooperators to ensure adequate alert and protection measures are in place.

Suppression tactics today will focus on securing containment lines along the southern and eastern perimeters. Crews will begin line preparation efforts during the day, which includes mechanical line construction and removal of safety hazards such as snags. Various options have been identified in case the fire moves beyond expected containment lines. Lines on the north side are holding firm along Spence Ridge and around the Outward Bound camp. Crews and an engine are applying structure protection measures around the camp and will stay in place as long as necessary.

Size of the fire is estimated at 2,700 acres with 40% containment. There is one structure on private property identified within the containment lines. Protection measures are being implemented to reduce the risk of damage from the fire. There was one reported injury from a minor vehicle accident. Additional dozers and another 20 person hand crew were ordered today to assist with suppression efforts. This brings the total number of firefighters to 140, representing 10 states across the country.

Two additional trails were closed yesterday in the Linville Gorge area, the Hawksbill Trail (#248) and the Pinnacle Trail (#440). In response to concerns for public safety, several of the roads and trails in the Linville Gorge will remain closed. If you have plans to recreate in the gorge this weekend you should first check the National Forests in North Carolina website for the latest closure information.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation. However, fire investigators would appreciate talking with the group who were camping at Table Rock Picnic Area last Monday, Veteran’s Day. Investigators believe this group has information that would aid in the investigation. A reward may be offered for substantial information regarding this investigation and persons should contact Law Enforcement Officer Jason Crisp at828-442-2470 or the Grandfather Ranger District at 828-652-2144.

*Release from U.S. Forest Service

Update: Friday evening

Table Rock Wildfire Jumps Southern Flank, Increases to 2,700 Acres

Nov. 15, 2013. The Table Rock wildfire advanced south today, moving across containment lines at Chimney Gap. Line construction in this area was difficult due to steep, rocky terrain and inaccessible areas in the rock outcrops.

A 40-acre spot fire was found during the morning reconnaissance, causing the North Carolina Type 3 Team to implement contingency plans which identified new containments lines. There are no structures threatened as a result of this new development, and the Team plans to bring in additional fire fighters to help in suppression efforts. Two helicopters dropped water on the spot fire most of the day and an additional helicopter (Type 1) was ordered, which can drop up to 1,000 gallons at one time.

Most of the suppression activities today were focused around burn out operations along the south flank. Dozer lines held on the eastern side of the fire, tying in with Forest Road 118. Agency crews and the Oak Hill Volunteer Fire Department continue to stand by at the Outward Bound camp, in case the fire pushed on the northeast containment line. Fire is still backing in the southwest corner but all other areas have fully burned and fire activity is mostly out. Weather conditions worked in the crews favor with higher humidity and light winds. Most of the smoke is drifting to the east, impacting mostly forest lands. Communities near the fire will continue to experience some smoke but not to a level which is considered dangerous.

Smoke dispersion is expected to be poor this evening, and residents east and south of the fire may experience an increase in smoke intotomorrow morning.

Size of the fire is estimated at 2,700 acres with 40% containment. There are no additional structures threatened and no reported injuries. Just over 100 fire fighters are assisting with the suppression efforts, representing North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, and Kentucky.

Roads and trails in the Linville Gorge remain closed to the public. If you have plans to access the gorge this weekend you should check theNational Forests in North Carolina website for the latest closure information before leaving on your trip.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. However, fire investigators would appreciate talking with the group who were camping at Table Rock Picnic Area last Monday, Veteran’s Day. Investigators believe this group has information that would aid in the investigation.

A reward may be offered for substantial information regarding this investigation and persons should contact Law Enforcement Officer Jason Crisp at828-442-2470 or the Grandfather Ranger District at 828-652-2144.

*Release from U.S. Forest Service

Update: Friday Afternoon

Air Quality Officials Continue Health Notice for Western North Carolina

Nov. 15, 2013. Air quality officials continued an advisory today for air pollution in parts of western North Carolina as smoke from a Burke County wildfire drifts downwind.

Residents in Avery, Burke, Caldwell, McDowell and Watauga counties could experience unhealthy air quality, depending on wind directions.

A 1,800-acre wildfire in the Pisgah National Forest is producing heavy smoke that could contain high levels of particle pollution. The fire is centered in the Linville Gorge Wilderness near Table Rock Mountain, and satellite photos show a large plume of smoke drifting downwind. Smoke could reach as far as Boone, Marion and Hickory.

The N.C. Division of Air Quality, or DAQ, does not have a monitor close to the fire, but previous measurements have found unhealthy air pollution levels in smoke directly downwind of wildfires. Some of the highest particle pollution levels that DAQ has ever measured were in smoke plumes from wildfires.

The primary pollutant of concern is fine particles, which are extremely small particles and liquid droplets in the air. Particles can be harmful to breathe and contribute to haze and other air quality problems.

The air pollution forecast for today and Saturday estimates that fine particle levels could exceed the standard of 35 micrograms per cubic meter averaged over 24 hours. High particle levels can impair breathing and aggravate symptoms in people with respiratory problems, and irritate the lungs in healthy individuals. People with chronic lung ailments and children should reduce physical exertion and outdoor activity.

Today, residents in Avery, Burke, Caldwell, McDowell and Watauga counties could experience Code Orange conditions, which indicates the air is unhealthy for sensitive groups in Avery, Burke, Caldwell, McDowell and Watauga counties. Spotty smoke could be present in areas north of Interstate 40 in the western Piedmont and northwest mountains of the state.

The forecast means people who are sensitive to air pollution should avoid or reduce prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors. Sensitive groups include the elderly, children, people who work or exercise outdoors, and those with heart conditions and respiratory ailments such as asthma, bronchitis and emphysema. Everyone else should reduce prolonged or heavy exertion.

Fine particles can penetrate deeply into the lungs and be absorbed into the bloodstream, causing or aggravating heart and lung diseases. People most susceptible to particle pollution include those with heart and respiratory conditions, the elderly and young children. Symptoms of exposure to high particle levels include: irritation of the eyes, nose and throat; coughing; phlegm; chest pain or tightness; shortness of breath; and asthma attacks. In extreme cases, particle pollution can cause premature death.

The N.C. Division of Air Quality issues daily air forecasts for the Triangle, Charlotte, Asheville, Hickory, Fayetteville and Rocky Mount metropolitan areas. In the Triad, forecasts are issued by the Forsyth County Environmental Affairs Department. For additional information, call 1-888-RU4NCAIR (1-888-784-6224) or visit the DAQ website at http://www.ncair.org or Forsyth County’s website at, http://www.co.forsyth.nc.us/EnvAffairs/.

See another release titled: Air Air Quality Officials Issue Health Notice for Western Piedmont

*Release from N.C. Division of Air Quality

Public Health Advisory from Appalachian District Health Department

Nov. 15, 2013. The Appalachian District Health Department has issued a public health advisory notice about air quality in Watauga County area. Smoke that has drifted into neighboring counties from the Table Rock Fire due to wind and weather patterns has led to a Code Orange air quality index. According to the Division of Air Quality, code orange is not likely to affect most people, but may have greater effect on people with heart and lung diseases, older adults, and children due to the increase particle pollution in the air. “Individuals who may be at greater risk should be aware to avoid potential complications. Of course, anyone who may be concerned about any symptoms such as trouble breathing should contact their healthcare provider,” said Beth Lovette, Health Director. Breathing air with more particle pollution may place these individuals at greater risk for complications. Those who have a diagnosed condition such as asthma, COPD, chronic bronchitis, lung or heart disease, or other immune compromised condition should use caution and limit activities outdoors during this time. In addition, those who are usually working or exercising outdoors should also use caution and avoid prolonged periods outside. You can stay connected with up-to-date information about air quality by logging on to Appalachian District Health Department on facebook or www.apphealth.com. If you have additional questions or concerns, please contact your local Appalachian District Health Department Office or log on to www.apphealth.com (Watauga County: 828-264-4995, Ashe County 336-246-9449, Alleghany 336-372-5641).

Update: Friday, 12 p.m.

Changing Weather Aids in Table Rock Wildfire Suppression

Nov. 15, 2013. Fire fighters are making progress on suppressing the Table Rock wildfire in the Linville Gorge on the Grandfather Ranger District, Pisgah National Forest. A change in weather conditions today should bring some much needed rain to the area. However, the rain is expected to be sparse across the Linville Gorge and will not be enough to fully suppress the fire. Total size of the fire grew to 1,800 acres yesterday with a 40 percent containment estimate as a result of extensive burnout operations.

Wildfire suppression efforts today will focus on additional burnouts along the southern flank of the fire. Crews have built containment lines by hand and dozer, and expect to fire from these lines as they use fire to fight fire. Smoke will increase this afternoon due to the active fire and burnout operations. The public will continue to be affected by smoke in the immediate area but there should not be any serious impact beyond the Forest boundary. Federal fire fighters from 4 states have joined forces in North Carolina to suppress the Table Rock Fire, with more than 100 personnel working the fire. The Cherokee Hotshot crew from Tennessee is the most recent hand crew to join forces with the North Carolina Type 3 Team

To date, the fire intensity has been moderate across the gorge. Burnout crews are seeing full consumption of fuels as the set fires move toward the active fire, thus leaving few areas of unburned fuel between the fire and the containment lines. This means less potential for a re-burn later in the future.

Twenty-five structures in the Outward Bound camp area were originally threatened by the wildfire, but containment lines and burnout tactics have been successfully used as protection measures. There are no additional structures threatened and no injuries to fire fighters to date.

Roads and trails in the Linville Gorge remain closed to protect the public and fire fighters, who use the narrow, winding roads for fire access. The public should check the National Forests in North Carolina website for the latest closure information before planning any trips into the Linville Gorge.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. However, fire investigators would appreciate talking with the group who were camping at Table Rock Picnic Area last Monday, Veteran’s Day. Investigators believe this group has information that would aid in the investigation. A reward may be offered for substantial information regarding this investigation and persons should contact Law Enforcement Officer Jason Crisp at 828-442-2470 or the Grandfather Ranger District at 828-652-2144.

*Release from U.S. Forest Service

Update: Friday, 9 a.m.

N.C. Division of Air Quality Issues Code Orange Alert Issued for Counties Nearby Table Rock Fire

To Expand Beyond 1,800 Acres, Now 40 Percent Contained

By Jesse Wood

Nov. 15, 2013. As the “Table Rock Fire” in the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area rages on Friday morning, the N.C. Division of Air Quality has issued a Code Orange alert for Alexander, Burke, Caldwell and Catawba counties. The orange rating means that the air quality is “unhealthy for sensitive groups.”

“All children and active adults, and people with respiratory disease, such as asthma, should limit prolonged outdoor exertion in the presence of smoke,” the N.C. Division of Air Quality forecast for Friday notes.

Smoke has also been reported in Avery, Wilkes, Watauga and McDowell counties, and the N.C. Division of Air Quality notes that Surry may experience heavier smoke as well depending on fire growth and intensity.

The Table Rock Fire is located in the Linville Gorge on the Grandfather Ranger District, Pisgah National Forest, about half way down the gorge, south of Spence Ridge Trail. The fire began on Veterans Day and was first reported to an Avery County ranger at 8 a.m. on Tuesday.

A fire that the U.S. Forest Service first reported being 15 acres in size on Tuesday afternoon as since grown to 1,800 acres, and authorities expect the fire to continue to spread as firefighters – 100 personnel in all – work to contain the blaze by utilizing burnout techniques in the remote and rugged gorge.

Deborah Walker, a public information officer with the U.S. Forest Service said the fire was 40 percent contained as of Friday morning at 8:45 a.m.

Burnout operations to the south are concluding today, Walker said. Once ignition of the southern boundary, southern containment line begins, Walker said the acreage of the fire is expected to “grow yet again this afternoon.”

Because of the steep and rugged terrain of the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, the firefighters are having to fight fire with fire.

“It’s very dangerous to put firefighters down in that country. It’s like a chimney. That fire could come roaring up out of there and trap and kill them,” Walker said. “Instead of putting them in that dangerous of a situation, we’ll back them up to secure points along the ridges and roads where it is relatively safe.”

Walker added that the controlled burnout will consume the fuels in the path of the wildfire and hopefully stop the fire. She said the burn is of moderate intensity, meaning that it isn’t patchy but uniform across the landscape.

After the burnout of the southern containment line is finished, the firefighters will continue monitoring and patrolling the fire.

The public will continue to experience smoke from the fire through the weekend. Winds from the south will push the smoke to northern communities during the day and will settle into the canyons at night.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. Fire investigators are asking the public to contact the Grandfather Ranger District at 828-652-2144 with any information about persons in the Table Rock picnic area on Monday, Veteran’s Day.

Read the posts below for more information.

Update: Thursday 5 p.m.

Additional Trails Closed due to Table Rock Wildfire

Nov. 14, 2013. Firefighters made progress on the Table Rock wildfire today, as they concentrated their efforts on burn out tactics to reduce the spread of the active fire front. The Table Rock fire is located in the Linville Gorge on the Grandfather Ranger District, Pisgah National Forest, about half way down the gorge, south of Spence Ridge Trail. Size of the fire increased to 1,800 acres as a result of effective burn out operations conducted yesterday and today. Fire containment has not changed from the estimated 5 percent earlier today.

Additional trails were closed today in the Linville Gorge. This includes the Conley Cove Trail (#229), the Pinch In Trail (#228), the Rock Jock Trail (#247), and parts of the Linville Gorge Trail (#231). Other trails around Table Rock Mountain and Shortoff Mountain along with the Table Rock Picnic Area are still closed to public access. Visitors looking to access the Linville Gorge should check the National Forests in North Carolina website for the latest closure information.

Several US Forest Service engines and the Oak Hill Volunteer Fire Department are standing by at the Outward Bound complex as protection resources in case the fire should cross containment lines surrounding the area. A total of 25 structures at Outward Bound were originally threatened by the fire. Dozer lines and burn out operations should provide additional protection measures for this facility. There are no other homes or structures threatened at this time.

Close to 100 firefighting personnel are assisting with suppression efforts. Federal crews from several surrounding states are providing support to this incident. Most of the operations tonight andtomorrow will be centered around burn outs between the containment lines and the active fire front. Burn out tactics will be used to reduce unburned fuels between the containment lines and the wildfire itself. Crews will burn from the line with the expectation that the set fire will carry to the active wildfire areas. These burned out areas will reduce the spread by removing fuels that can carry a fire.

The public will continue to experience smoke from the fire through the weekend. Winds from the south will push the smoke to northern communities during the day and will settle into the canyons at night.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. Fire investigators are asking the public to contact the Grandfather Ranger District at 828-652-2144 with any information about persons in the Table Rock picnic area on Monday, Veteran’s Day.

*Release from U.S. Forest Service

Update: Thursday 11 a.m.

Considerable Progress Cited in Table Rock Fire as Wildfire Spreads To 300 Acres, Five Percent Contained

By Jesse Wood

Nov. 14, 2013. Officials with the U.S. Forest Service are citing “considerable progress” as the “Table Rock Fire” continues to grow by leaps and bounds.

What was initially a 15-acre fire on Tuesday morning has since spread to cover at least 300 acres, according to the latest update from the U.S. Forest Service on Thursday afternoon.

The fire was detected on Tuesday morning in the Table Rock Picnic Area and the wildfire increased in size as westerly winds pushed the fire to the east. While the first two days consisted of zero percent containment, fire containment is estimated to be 5 percent on Thursday.

More from a press release as 11 a.m:

Fire crews made considerable progress on line construction for the Table Rock fire yesterday, even though fire activity did increase. The fire is located in the Linville Gorge on the Grandfather Ranger District, Pisgah National Forest, within the perimeter of the Table Rock and Chimney area. This fire was first detected on Tuesday, November 12th in the Table Rock Picnic Area. Size of the wildfire increased to 300 acres yesterday as a result of westerly winds that pushed the fire to the east. Fire containment is estimated at 5 percent.

US Forest Service engine crews and the Oak Hill Volunteer Fire Department were able to reduce fuels around the Outward Bound facility, by removing vegetation and burning out around the structures. There are no other homes or structures threatened at this time.

Fire fighter numbers increased to 100 personnel overnight, as crews came in from surrounding states. No injuries have been reported. Additional resources will continue to arrive today as the NC Type 3 Team initiates operational tactics to slow the spread of the fire. Those tactics involve the use of fire to fight fire. A “burn out” operation will be used to expand the effectiveness of the containment lines. Crews will burn from the line with expectation that the set fire will carry to the active wildfire areas. These burned out areas will reduce the spread by removing fuels that can carry a fire.

Today the public should see an increase in the amount of smoke coming from the area. The majority of the smoke is from the wildfire itself; however, some of the smoke will be a result of the burn out operations. The amount of smoke will be heaviest in the mid-afternoon and should dissipate by evening. Most of the smoke is expected to move northeast of Table Rock, although some smoke will settle into Linville Gorge tonight as winds decrease and humidity increases.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. Fire investigators are asking the public to contact the Grandfather Ranger District at 828-652-2144 with any information about persons in the Table Rock picnic area on Monday, Veteran’s Day.

Several trails in the Table Rock Mountain and Shortoff Mountain area are closed to public access. The Table Rock Picnic Area is also closed. Visitors looking to access the Linville Gorge should check the National Forests in North Carolina website for the latest closure information.

Update: Thursday

Lynn Willis Captures Images, the Intensity, of the Table Rock Fire

By Jesse Wood

Outdoor adventure photographer Lynn Willis just shared some striking images of the “Table Rock Fire” that continues to spread in the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area.

On a chilly Wednesday night, Willis photographed the “Table Rock Fire” from the Rock Jock Trail on the western rim of the Linville Gorge.

“It was a phenomena happening right in front of me for all hours I was there and the sounds were crazy with falling trees and two large rock falls. Somewhere up in the blaze, cliffs were tumbling down into the gorge, similar to rockfall in the high mountains. The winds were constantly changing directions every which way making the smoke do some amazing formations,” Willis wrote.

He added that luckily, he never smelled the nauseating smell of forest fire smoke.

“The fire was from Table Rock and south to The Chimneys, on the ridge and deep into the gorge, but not down to the river. There were also spot fires in the Northern part of the gorge near lower Spence Ridge Trail. It’s a big fire and I don’t see how any firefighters will be able to reach the majority of the locations. Many thanks to those working hard to put it out.”

Check out more photos of the Table Rock Fire at the bottom of this post.

To see more of Lynn Willis’ photos, click to his website at www.LynnWillis.com.

Willis is the studio manager for Mast General Stores and a freelance photographer specializing in outdoor adventure sports and landscapes of the Southern Appalachians.

By Jesse Wood

Update: 8:45 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 14

Deborah Walker, an onsite public information officer with the U.S. Forest Service, said on Thursday morning that the “Table Rock Fire” has grown “a little” since her latest update on Wednesday night. She couldn’t provide an estimate on acreage of the fire, which was last reported to be 100 acres in size.

Personnel has increased to 100 individuals from 40 on Wednesday, and the fire,which began on Veterans Day Monday, hasn’t been contained whatsoever. Walker added that the fire has moved to the east.

“Today’s operation is about the burnout from the lines we constructed yesterday,” Walker said.

For more details, read the numerous updates below.

Release from U.S. Forest Service

Update: 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 13

The Table Rock wildfire continues to burn in the Linville Gorge Wilderness area of the Grandfather Ranger District, Pisgah National Forest. Forest Service crews are working to complete containment lines to the north, south and east. Containment lines will be strengthened by conducting a “burn out” over the next couple of days in an effort to stop fire progression. Size of the fire is still estimated at 100 acres.

The fire is located in the Table Rock Mountain area, within the Linville Gorge, just north of the Chimney’s. Fire activity was moderate today with some growth to the east. Engine crews, assisted by the Oak Hill Volunteer Fire Department, have been stationed at the Outward Bound facility to provide structure protection, should the fire continue to advance in that direction. Outward Bound staff left the area today and no other homes or structures are threatened at this time.

Over 40 fire fighters are working to contain the fire with additional crews expected to arrive tomorrow. There have been no injuries reported and no loss of structures.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. Fire investigators are asking the public to contact the Grandfather Ranger District at 828-652-2144 with any information about persons in the Table Rock picnic area on Monday, Veteran’s Day.

Several trails in the Table Rock Mountain and Shortoff Mountain area are closed to public access. The Table Rock Picnic Area is also closed. Visitors looking to access the Linville Gorge should check the National Forests in North Carolina website for the latest closure information.

‘Table Rock Fire’ in Linville Gorge Wilderness Area Spreads to 100 Acres, Zero Percent Contained, Expected to Grow

By Jesse Wood

Nov. 13, 2013. Dubbed the “Table Rock Fire, which has grown from 40 acres to 100 acres overnight, the wildfire in the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area is zero-percent contained as of Wednesday morning at 10:30 a.m.

Initially, the U.S. Forest Service noted that the fire was 15-acres in size on Tuesday at 1 p.m., but that fire steadily grew to 40 acres just a couple hours later.

Located in a rugged, remote part of the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, firefighters are cleaning up existing roads, trails and existing firelines from previous fires to try to contain the wildfire, which burned actively through the night and is expected to grow in size over the next couple days, according to the U.S. Forest Service.

Firefighters continue to protect the vacant Outward Bound base camp area, and the U.S. Forest Service notes that no other homes or structures are threatened at this time. No injuries have been reported either. Trails near Table Rock Mountain and the Table Rock picnic area are closed.

Yesterday, the National Forests in North Carolina forest supervisor approved the use of mechanized equipment, including leaf blowers, bulldozers, two helicopters and chainsaws, to suppress the wildfire in the wilderness area. A Type 3 Incident Command Team will be in place by 6 p.m. today. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) should be in place over the fire today to protect the safety of aviation assets assigned to the fire.

The U.S. Forest Service is working with the N.C. Forest Service, Burke County Emergency Management, and N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission to suppress the fire.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The fire began just a few days after the N.C. Forest Service upgraded its fire readiness plan rating to three due to the sustained dry and windy conditions and sheer number of downed leaves.

About 8 a.m. Tuesday, an individual traveling down Highway 181 alerted Avery County Ranger Joe Shoupe of a fire near the Table Rock and Linville Gorge area. Because it was outside of the jurisdiction of the N.C. Forest Service, Shoupe then contacted the U.S. Forest Service, which located the fire, found access and began working on containing the fire.

“They’ll probably be working on that for seven days. It’s in a real rugged, remote area,” Shoupe said on Tuesday afternoon.

At the beginning of the year, a proposed prescribed burn of the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area by the forest service dominated headlines when landowners of a nearby Gingercake Acres development opposed the proposition, while the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission supported the prescribed burn. See links to those two articles below.

Jan. 10, 2013: Landowners of Gingercake Acres Fume Over Potential Prescribed Burns to Linville Gorge Wilderness Area

Feb. 21, 2013: N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission Supports Proposed Prescribed Fire at Linville Gorge Wilderness Area

40-Acre Linville Gorge Fire Threatens Camp Area, High Country has ‘Pretty Critical Fire Conditions Right Now’

By Jesse Wood

Nov. 12, 2013. Days after the N.C. Forest Service increased its fire readiness plan due to dry and windy conditions and downed leaves, approximately 20 firefighters with the U.S. Forest Service are now working to contain a 40-acre wildfire in the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, which is a part of the Grandfather Ranger District, Pisgah National Forest.

Located in the east-central part of the gorge, the fire is threatening the vacant Outward Bound base camp and is one-quarter mile southwest of Table Rock Mountain, according to the U.S. Forest Service on Tuesday afternoon. No other homes or structures are threatened at this time.

“Currently, firefighters are creating fire lines to suppress the fire. A Type 3 Incident Command Team has been ordered to suppress the fire and will be in place by the end of tomorrow. This will bring the total number of Forest Service and other firefighters to close to 40. The National Forests in North Carolina Forest Supervisor has approved the use of mechanized equipment (such as leaf blowers and chainsaws) to suppress the wildfire in the wilderness area. The Forest Service will use bulldozers outside the wilderness area. Two helicopters will also help suppress the wildfire,” a press release noted at 3 p.m.

The U.S. Forest Service is working with the N.C. Forest Service, Burke County Emergency Management, and N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission to suppress the fire.

The cause of fire is currently under investigation, and a release noted that more information would be provided as it becomes available.

About 8 a.m. this morning, an individual traveling down Highway 181 alerted Avery County Ranger Joe Shoupe of a fire near the Table Rock and Linville Gorge area. Because it was outside of the jurisdiction of the N.C. Forest Service, Shoupe then contacted the U.S. Forest Service, which located the fire, found access and began working on containing the fire.

“They’ll probably be working on that for seven days. It’s in a real rugged, remote area,” Shoupe said.

The N.C. Forest Service increased its fire readiness plan rating to three on Friday. That rating indicates the potential for moderate fire activity.

Both Shoupe and Watauga County Ranger Stuart Scott said that the High Country has been fortunate so far because of the lack of fires amidst dry conditions of the past month.

“We’ve been pretty lucky,” Scott said, adding that even though the High Country has had a rainy summer, sustained winds don’t take long to dry out surface fuels in the forest.

“It’s been very dry, and we haven’t had many fires that escaped any control – mostly just reports of smoke from debris, burning piles and large vegetation. But to remind the public, it doesn’t take much when winds are increased like now to let a fire get out. Just really practice safe burning techniques and have the ability to put out fires quickly if they get away.”

Shoupe added that Avery County has had only one fire in the past weeks or so.

“With dry conditions, so far, thankfully, we haven’t had a tremendous amount of fires,” Shoupe said. “The conditions have been really bad for fires. We’ve been fortunate. We are in some pretty critical fire conditions right now.”

He added that even though some snow is in the forecast, he said “it’s not supposed to do a whole lot.”

With woodstoves being used for the winter, Shoupe advises people to be real careful with ash disposal and debris burns, too.

“Have a plan [to put out a fire] in place, before you start the fire,” Shoupe said.

To see the daily fire plan in your district click here.

Photos by Lynn Willis