WNC -- April 17, 2026: Firefighting crews and aviation resources are currently engaged with two active wildfires in the Nantahala National Forest following a spike in activity this past Thursday. While two smaller fires were quickly suppressed, the Sawmill Branch Fire and the Flat Rattlesnake Fire remain active, prompting Stage 1 Fire Restrictions across all four National Forests in North Carolina.
Active Fire Status
Sawmill Branch Fire
Location: 12 miles east of Robbinsville (near Otter Creek Road).
Size: Estimated 25 acres.
Containment: 5%.
Outlook: Overnight rain (0.3 inches) has cooled the fire’s edge, allowing 40 personnel to engage the blaze directly today.
Caution: The fire is 1.5 miles west of the Appalachian Trail at Tellico Gap; hikers should expect smoke impacts. Drivers are urged to avoid Deweese Road to clear the way for equipment.
Flat Rattlesnake Fire
Location: 3.5 miles north of Highlands (near Flat Mountain).
Size: Estimated 20 acres.
Containment: 20%.
Outlook: 25 personnel are utilizing heavy equipment and helicopter water drops. Higher humidity levels this morning are assisting ground crews in establishing control lines.
Caution: The public is asked to stay clear of the Flat Mountain Road area.
Critical Safety Warnings
A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is now in effect over both fire zones. Officials remind the public that operating drones in these areas is strictly prohibited, stating: "If you fly, we can’t!" Unauthorized drones ground the essential aircraft needed to drop water and retardant.
Weather and Fire Restrictions
Despite scattered rain last night, dry and windy conditions are forecasted to persist through the weekend. With temperatures hitting the 80s and humidity dropping to 30%, the risk of new ignitions remains high.
Stage 1 Fire Restrictions: These are now active across all four National Forests in North Carolina (Nantahala, Pisgah, Uwharrie, and Croatan).
Air Quality: Smoke may settle in valleys during morning and evening commutes. Residents should monitor air quality at fire.airnow.gov.
For the latest news and updates on firefighting operations in Western North Carolina, visit wnctimes
Image: U.S. Forest Service - National Forests in North Carolina