Rutherford County Issues Immediate Evacuation Order Due to Wildfires
Wildfires in North and South Carolina continue to spread with little containment. The largest fires, within 20 miles of each other, include the Black Cove, Deep Woods, and Fish Hook fires in North Carolina, now grouped under the Black Cove complex. These fires, which began in Polk County, have spread into Henderson County. According to WCNC, over 300 firefighters are working to contain the blazes. In Rutherford County, North Carolina, officials issued an immediate evacuation order for residents along South Winds Drive and Davenport Road due to a rapidly advancing fire. An emergency shelter has been set up at First Presbyterian Church in Rutherfordton. Gov. Josh Stein declared a State of Emergency to enhance the response to the fires.