According to the North Carolina Wildfire Public Viewer, the Panther Creek fire is estimated to be about 70 acres and is 60% contained as of Monday morning. This containment level has been held thanks to the dedicated efforts of the North Carolina Forest Service (NCFS) and local fire crews.
Fire officials continue to urge the public to avoid the area if possible. A one-mile section near the 2800 block of Panther Creek Road remains closed to all traffic while crews work to fully secure the fire lines and extinguish hot spots.
Local Safety Measures
In response to the extremely high fire danger, the Haywood County Fire Marshal's Office has issued a county-wide Burn Ban.
This ban is in effect under the authority of the Haywood County Fire Prevention Ordinance.
The burn ban voids all previously issued burn permits for the duration.
Officials advise residents that violating the ban may result in fines.
Please follow local authorities for updates and use caution around the area. This information was compiled from updates provided by Haywood County Emergency Services and the North Carolina Forest Service.
WNCTimes