Brush fire closes part of NC 211 in Brunswick County; only 20 percent contained
SHALLOTTE, NC (WWAY) — For the safety of drivers and first responders, a portion of N.C. 211 in Brunswick County will remain closed until a brush fire is under control, according to the NC Department of Transportation. The NCDOT, along with emergency responders, have closed the highway near U.S 17.
They say it is uncertain how long N.C. 211 will need to remain closed to traffic.A detour is in place that travels into Columbus County and reconnects with NC 211 past the closure. NCDOT urges drivers to take the detour into account when planning travel and avoid N.C. 211 in the area.
As of this morning, the 568 acres fire is 20% contained. Personnel from the N.C. Forest Service and the Nature Conservancy are responding to the fire.
Crews say containment of the wildfire is a challenge due to the difficult terrain, organic soils, heavy fuels and windy conditions. Citizens can expect significant smoke impacts.
They say the fire started Sunday in difficult terrain six miles north of Supply along Highway 211 and that initial investigation indicates the fire was caused by a lightning strike associated with weekend storms. A full investigation will be conducted at a later time.
