Governor Josh Stein has broadened his State of Emergency in response to the growing wildfire threat in Western North Carolina. This critical move aims to increase the state’s ability to manage and respond to rapidly spreading fires across the region. Residents are urged to exercise caution and remain vigilant as fire danger remains high.

“The wildfires in Western North Carolina continue to grow, so I have expanded our State of Emergency,” Governor Stein emphasized. “Our State Emergency Response Team is utilizing every tool at its disposal. Please stay safe and pay close attention to evacuation orders if the fires pose a risk to your area.”

The State Emergency Response Team has been actively supporting counties with resources and personnel. Efforts include deploying communications resources, tactical emergency telecommunicators, and incident management teams. The North Carolina Forest Service and the Office of State Fire Marshal have also joined the fight, with additional fire departments from across the state assisting local firefighters.

The expanded State of Emergency covers the following counties and tribal lands of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians in North Carolina: Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Cabarrus, Caldwell, Catawba, Cherokee, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Iredell, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mecklenburg, Mitchell, Polk, Rowan, Rutherford, Stanly, Swain, Transylvania, Union, Watauga, Wilkes, and Yancey. This action ensures that affected regions receive the resources and aid they need.

Residents are strongly advised to stay informed by following local government websites, social media updates, and enabling emergency alerts on their cell phones. For real-time updates on fires, evacuation notices, and how to prepare for emergencies, visit www.ReadyNC.gov.

Governor Stein and state officials urge all North Carolinians to prioritize safety, heed evacuation instructions, and report any local emergencies promptly as the wildfires continue to challenge communities in the Western part of the state.

SOURCE | Governor.NC.GOV

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