ADVISORY: Wildfire Risk is Extremely High in the Southern Appalachians

Conditions across the Southern Appalachians, foothills and Piedmont are making it very easy for wildfires to start and spread. Dry weather, gusty winds, and leftover debris from Hurricane Helene have created a dangerous situation.

What you need to know:

• Wildfires are starting quickly and spreading fast—even across roads, creeks, and areas that usually help slow them down.
• Winds are carrying burning embers hundreds of yards away from the main wildfire.
• Wildfires are burning through the night, with little to no slowdown after sunset.
• Even green plants like mountain laurel and rhododendron are catching fire easily.
• Downed limbs and dry leaves from Helene are adding fuel, making wildfires more intense and harder to control.
• Some wildfires have already reached homes and other structures.

If you live in East Tennessee, Northern Georgia, Northwest South Carolina, or Western North Carolina, stay alert. If there is wildfire activity near you, follow local guidance and be prepared to evacuate early. Flying drones near wildfires is dangerous and not allowed—it puts emergency crews at risk.

This advisory was issued by the Southern Area fire response team in coordination with state and federal partners.