Southern states rally wildfire resources as North Carolina braces for dangerous fire conditions in Helene’s wake

State forestry agencies from across the Southeast are mobilizing to send wildfire support to North Carolina, which is facing elevated fire danger and challenging conditions following Tropical Storm Helene. At the request of the North Carolina Forest Service, the Southeastern Interstate Forest Fire Protection Compact was activated by Greg Hicks, compact chair and North Carolina State Forester.

The activation comes as North Carolina prepares for forecasted hazardous fire conditions combined with dangerous fuel accumulations left in the wake of Tropical Storm Helene, creating the potential for extreme fire behavior that could rapidly overwhelm state resources.

“Support from southern state forestry agencies will strengthen response capacity in North Carolina, helping to protect lives, homes, community infrastructure and natural resources during this critical period. These interstate partnerships are a crucial part of strategic wildfire response in the South, allowing states to deploy resources when and where they’re needed most. By working together, states not only enhance wildfire response, but also improve firefighter safety by reducing strain on local crews,” said Jim Prevette Director for the Southern Group of State Foresters. “These cooperative partnerships also provide valuable experience for wildland firefighters who deploy, allowing them to sharpen their skills in different fire environments and bring that expertise home.”

The Southeastern Compact enables participating state forestry agencies to send wildland firefighting resources and personnel quickly and efficiently across state lines to suppress wildfires. While State Foresters continue to monitor conditions to ensure their own states have adequate staffing and resources to respond to wildfires and emergencies, the Southeastern Compact provides a ready system for sharing overhead resources and state-to-state reimbursement for wildfire support.

For more information about wildfires in the South, visit the SGSF Wildland Fire Management webpage or contact your local state forestry agency.