A fast-moving wildfire in the NC mountains continued to challenge emergency crews this morning after erupting in the Elk Valley community near Banner Elk and Beech Mountain.
The National Weather Service reported that the fire had already burned more than 120 acres and remained only 50% contained by 9 a.m.
Multiple fire departments, Avery County Emergency Management, and the North Carolina Forest Service responded quickly as flames spread across steep terrain, producing heavy smoke and reducing visibility.
State officials said Highway 194 remains completely shut down between Sam Eller Road and Edgar Tufts Road due to dangerous conditions. Drivers are being urged to avoid the area until further notice.
Firefighters continued cutting containment lines Tuesday while air quality monitors tracked smoke drifting toward nearby mountain communities. The cause of the wildfire has not yet been released, and additional updates are expected as containment efforts progress.
Authorities are asking residents to stay alert for evacuation notices and to monitor official county and state updates throughout the day.
