Wildfire season is changing the color of the sky in Columbus County for the second week in a row.
The National Weather Service said the smoke plume from a 200-acre wildfire in Marion County, S.C. is blowing across Southeastern North Carolina, leading to hazy conditions throughout the area. The fire is completely contained, and crews are allowing the fire to burn itself out.
The Rosindale fire on the Bladen County line caused similar conditions here last week, but they were worse because of prevailing winds and the size of the fire. That blaze began April 8 near the intersection of N.C. 211 and Rosindale Road, and quickly grew from four acres to more than 700. Aircraft were called in, but were temporarily grounded due to smoke and wind conditions. Columbus County Emergency Services issued air quality advisories for the area due to heavy smoke and falling ash that spread from Lake Waccamaw to Cerro Gordo. That fire is currently at 70 percent containment, according to the N.C. Forest Service. Because of better mapping, the N.C. Forest Service has reduced the estimated size of the Rosindale blaze to 740 acres. The fire is still being monitored, since strong winds and dry conditions could allow flareups or flying embers to start additional spot fires. The cause of the blaze is under investigation.
All of North Carolina and Northeastern South Carolina are under burn bans. The ongoing drought has made fire conditions critical throughout the region.
The NCFS is also concerned about possible accidental fires caused by farm and logging equipment. Farmers and loggers are being urged to make sure equipment is parked or operated in areas with as little combustible material as possible. Chains should also be secured to prevent dragging and sparking on roads.
The National Weather Service extended forecast shows no significant precipitation for at least ten days. Higher temperatures and low humidity will increase the fire danger in the coming days.
