
A brush fire that ignited Wednesday afternoon in Franklin County has now spread to an estimated 400-450 acres as of 8:30 p.m., according to county fire officials.
Firefighters have been working tirelessly to contain the flames, with gusty overnight winds posing the main challenge for containment.
The fire, which began around 2 p.m. Wednesday in the area of Wades Gap and Webster Corner Road, has caused significant damage, with at least one home reported as a total loss.
Crews made some progress on Wednesday evening, as flames reportedly calmed enough to allow certain units to leave the scene for the night.
However, firefighting units are expected to remain on the ground into Thursday, as the weather outlook is favorable for continued containment.
"We are hopeful that the weather conditions on Thursday will allow for further progress in containing the fire," a spokesperson for the Franklin County Fire and EMS said.
A mandatory evacuation order, issued Wednesday afternoon, has been lifted. However, officials are urging residents to stay vigilant.
"We want to stress to those in the area to be aware and alert through the night for changing conditions," said a Franklin County Fire spokesperson. "Code Red alerts will be sent out if another evacuation order comes through, as well as updates to local news media outlets."
Fire crews are working closely with the American Red Cross to assist those affected by the fire. A shelter has been set up at Monte Vista Church of the Brethren for evacuees in need of assistance.
While the immediate threat to life and property has been reduced, officials warn that the gusty winds could reignite flames overnight, making it a challenging night ahead for both firefighters and residents.
As of late Wednesday, the fire has not been fully contained, and no official containment percentage has been provided.
Critical addresses of homes and structures in the area have been identified, and fire prevention crews have staged in those regions to protect property.
Multiple firefighting units are on the scene, including crews from the Franklin County Department of Public Safety, the Virginia Department of Forestry, and Roanoke County Fire and Rescue.
EMS units, local law enforcement, and the Red Cross are also on hand to assist with evacuations and provide shelter for displaced residents.
Two firefighters have sustained injuries while battling the blaze. According to a Franklin County spokesperson, their injuries are non-life-threatening, and they are currently being treated for their injuries.
The fire has also impacted traffic in the area. Wades Gap Road (Route 726) has been closed between Dillons Mill Road (Route 643) and Naff Road (Route 613) due to the fire.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area, as both north and south lanes are shut down. Delays are expected along Route 643N/S in the vicinity of Dillons Mill Road.
In addition to the Wades Gap fire, another smaller blaze has been reported closer to 22 acres in size in the area of Windy Ridge and Virgil Goode Highway. This fire is reportedly 90% contained.
As of now, firefighting efforts continue across both incidents, with crews working around the clock to ensure the safety of residents and contain the flames.
Stay tuned to BTW21 for further updates as the situation develops.
Kommentare