A wildfire is raging in North Carolina
A growing wildfire in North Carolina has prompted the closure of Pilot Mountain State Park. It is possible the park remains closed throughout the duration of this upcoming week. The NC State Parks announced on Twitter. Join the Firsthand Weather Supporter Group!
Pilot Mountain State Park is closed today, Nov. 28, and likely all week due a wildfire burning within the park. It has burned nearly 180 acres so far. Please stay away from the area. Do not use drones over the park to photograph- they could interfere with fire fighting aircraft.
— NC State Parks (@NCparks) November 28, 2021
The Pilot Knob Fire Department says the fire started Saturday, November 27. According to NC State Parks, the fire has burned close to 180 acres. The tweet was from the morning of Sunday, November 28, so it’s possible the fire has consumed more acres. According to ABC15, several agencies have responded to the fire in an attempt to get it under control.
Numerous agencies have responded to raging wildfire this weekend on Pilot Mountain in North Carolina and comes five years after a devastating fire tore through Great Smoky Mountains National Park. (Photos: Richard Hill)https://t.co/qRRjSr8orx pic.twitter.com/Fa1Lv5v2BX
— WPDE ABC15 (@wpdeabc15) November 28, 2021
The fire is still burning and not under control as of the afternoon on Sunday, November 28.
Drivers are warned of heavy smoke ahead as they approach Pilot Mountain on US-52 North. @WFMY pic.twitter.com/Lo4PcycZuZ
— Crosby Sensibaugh (@sensieC) November 28, 2021
Unfortunately, the forecast is largely dry for Pilot Mountain, NC this week. Models show no precipitation through Friday for this area. Along with the dry conditions, temperatures will grow well above average this week for the area from mid-week through the end of the week along with gusty winds at times.
European model precipitation forecast through Friday
Temperature departure from average from mid-week through the end of the week
These conditions will favor erratic fire growth at times, and other areas will be in a favorable environment for the start and growth of wildfires. Looking ahead, it appears by late this weekend into early the following week, a wetter weather pattern is expected. This will help with any burning fires. Join the Firsthand Weather Supporter Group!