Even as Asheville and western North Carolina residents recover from Hurricane Helene, 5f5 fires have burned 55 acres in the Nantahala National Forest. Crews have reached 90 percent containment of the Cole Gap Fire, offering a measure of relief. With extreme fire danger persisting, worsened by hurricane debris, an open burn ban remains in effect across Buncombe County.
Firefighters reported the progress on the Cole Gap Fire on April 14, 2026, even as they monitor other incidents sparked by debris from Hurricane Helene in western NC national forests. The open burn ban urges residents to refrain from all burning and to sign up for emergency alerts by texting "BCReady" to 67283. While conditions are improving, near-record April heat, about 20 degrees above normal, continues to fuel the blazes. A sharp cooldown and possible frost are expected next week.
These fires compound the challenges of recovering from Hurricane Helene, straining emergency resources and heightening risks for residents in fire-prone zones. To ensure equitable fire protection, the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners is considering a proposed Unified Fire Tax District, with a public hearing scheduled for April 21. The aim is to boost firefighter safety and long-term resiliency in the face of increased fire risks.
Environmental advocates praise the containment progress but criticize the slow pace of debris cleanup, linking it to broader climate resiliency gaps in WNC's forests. County Fire Marshal Kevin Tipton and other fire officials are advocating for the unified tax district to ensure sustainable funding for fire protection services.
More information about Burn Ban NC https://wnctimes.com/article/fire-restrictions-on-all-four-national-forests-in-north-carolina-beginning-april-15