MACON COUNTY, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The Winding Stairs Alpha Fire burning in the Nantahala National Forest is now 90 percent contained and has scorched 230 acres, according to the U.S. Forest Service.
Firefighters on Tuesday built handlines and dozer lines along the western edge of the fire and conducted mop-up operations along the northeastern perimeter. Crews also carried out a small firing operation along U.S. Highway 64 to strengthen the highway as a control line and reduce the potential for additional spread.
Rain fell over the fire area overnight, and more precipitation is expected throughout the day, which officials say should assist suppression efforts.
Firefighting personnel and equipment remain active in the area, and drivers are urged to use caution along Highway 64.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Authorities are asking anyone who was traveling along Highway 64 between 9:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. Monday to submit photos of the fire’s early stages to derik.breedlove@usda.gov
Smoke from the fire may reduce visibility and affect local air quality. Officials advise motorists to slow down and use caution in areas where smoke is present. Air quality alerts are available at airquality.climate.ncsu.edu and fire.airnow.gov.
