Forecast Discussion

Increased fire activity across southwestern NC is resulting in one visible fire at the moment (the Collet Ridge wildfire in Cherokee County) and one reported fire (the Poplar Drive wildfire in Henderson County) that is likely resulting in localized Code Red / Code Orange respectively particle pollution concentrations.

Ongoing dry atmospheric conditions combined with a persistent drought has led to several fires developing across southwestern NC. As a result, a burn ban is now in effect for 14 counties in this region. Based on all available information, it appears that these fires may continue through at least tomorrow and that localized Code Red fine particulate concentrations may be possible in Cherokee County, where the smoke plumes are originating from and are is still visible on satellite currently. The smoke plume in Henderson County with the Poplar Drive is not as evident currently, but with fire activity reportedly still ongoing and the fire no where near contained, more smoke is possible so will continue to hold Code Orange in this area and we will continue to monitor the situation.

Will continue to monitor for additional fires, along with evaluating the status of the two primary existing ones, and update the forecast as warranted. Continued dry conditions are likely through much of next week, which may exacerbate the current increased fire danger situation.