Wildfire brings smoky skies to Cape Fear

1 hour ago

Kinsey Rothenberger,

Haze over Isabella Holmes Bridge early Tuesday morning as a South Carolina wildfire sent smoke over the Cape Fear. (Photo: WWAY)

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Smoky skies settled over the Cape Fear region Tuesday as a wildfire burning in South Carolina sent haze drifting into southeastern North Carolina.

Drivers near the Isabel Holmes Bridge reported reduced visibility in the morning, with a noticeable haze stretching across the Cape Fear River into downtown Wilmington.

Officials say the smoke is coming from a wildfire in Marion County, South Carolina. Winds moving northeast pushed the smoke into the region. The fire is about 60% contained, but could continue to impact air quality in the Cape Fear area for the next few days.

Authorities are urging residents to take precautions, including keeping windows closed and limiting time outdoors, especially for people with respiratory conditions.

Toni Scollins with Novant Health says there are also ways to reduce exposure indoors.

“If you have it, an air purifier would be really good for you, and also having a humidifier in your house if you’re going to use that air purifier as well,” said Scollins.

Since a statewide burn ban was issued on March 28, a total of 554 wildfires have burned more than 2,200 acres across North Carolina. With little rainfall expected over the next seven to 10 days, the North Carolina Forest Service says the burn ban and enforcement efforts will remain in place until further notice.