Wildfires in Tryon and Saluda Area Now 30% Contained, Affecting 500 Acres

Image credits: WYFF 4

The Tryon and Saluda area in North Carolina has been affected by a large brushfire that has spread to over 500 acres, with 30% containment as of Sunday night. The fire, which began on Saturday, has prompted evacuations for some residents, and firefighters are working to protect homes and structures from the flames. According to Bobby Arledge, Polk County's EMS director, crews are monitoring the fire conditions to ensure it does not threaten any structures. Along US176, crews from more than 50 departments in the area are working to contain the fires, which are snaking along the ground with dry leaves and wood.

Homes are being protected by crews, with at least six homes on one side of US176 being safeguarded. Firefighter Michael Crouse with the NC Forest Service said that crews are backing fire off the mountain and gaining containment as they put out fires around structures. After dark, the fire line was even more visible around Tryon as it snaked around homes where crews had blown back leaves to protect them. The winds on Sunday died down, helping crews with containment, and only one vacant structure has burned since the fires began in Polk.

The Polk County Fire Marshal's Office has issued a ban on all open burning within 100 feet of a structure due to extremely dangerous fire conditions. The ban will remain in effect until conditions drastically improve. The NC Forest Service is conducting air drop and back-burning operations, and fire departments are in place to provide structural protection during and after this process. Evacuations are still voluntary for those in the affected areas of the fire, and a shelter location for evacuees is at the Polk County Senior Center.

Here is a list of key events and updates: * Saturday: Brush fire begins in Tryon, North Carolina, prompting evacuations for some residents * Sunday: Fire spreads to over 500 acres, with 30% containment * Sunday: Polk County Fire Marshal's Office issues ban on all open burning within 100 feet of a structure * Sunday: NC Forest Service conducts air drop and back-burning operations * Monday: Evacuation orders remain in effect for some residents, with a shelter location available at the Polk County Senior Center The emergency situation is being closely monitored, and residents are advised to avoid the fire area so crews can safely work.

The situation in Tryon and Saluda is a reminder of the importance of being prepared for wildfires and taking steps to prevent them. Residents are advised to stay informed about the latest developments and follow the instructions of local authorities. With the help of firefighters and emergency responders, the community is working together to contain the fire and protect homes and structures.