The Lake Lure Fire Department provided mutual aid in response to a woods fire threatening structures atop Shumont Mountain in Buncombe County.
On New Year’s Eve, around 7 p.m., Western NC fire crews, including Broad River Fire & Rescue and Chimney Rock, received several calls regarding a fire at the 900 block of Bald Mountain Road, an area previously burned during Party Rock.
Crews said heavy blowdown was fueling the fire, placing one residence in danger. Personnel were able to quickly knock that portion down, preventing damage to the home.
Around 6 a.m., firefighters reported that the fire activity had primarily been concentrated in Buncombe County, with fire crews working diligently to secure all homes in the area.
Fire crews have managed to establish effective containment lines during their efforts. After 13 hours of firefighting operations, officials said about 25% of the fire remains active, while 35-40 personnel from multiple agencies are still on scene dealing with strong winds and addressing hotspots.
