Lack of Rain Fueling Fires in Western North Carolina

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Dry conditions accompanied by high winds are continuing to hamper efforts to control wildfires across western North Carolina.

Although a cold front passed through the state on Saturday, there was no precipitation to help firefighters.

The U.S. Forest Service reports the Party Rock fire in the Lake Lure area is only 36 percent contained. Officials say the fire didn’t grow despite the wind, but firefighters are keeping an eye on it. The Party Rock fire has consumed 7,171 acres with nearly 1,000 firefighters working the blaze.

Officials say high winds and low humidity are also impacting the Chestnut Knob fire, which is 40 percent contained after consuming 6,424 acres.

In addition, the forest service reports two new fires in McDowell County, both of which started on Sunday.