WILKES COUNTY, N.C. — Wilkes County firefighters are fighting flames spanning 360 acres as dry, windy conditions continue.
Throughout the state, crews are battling dozens of wildfires burning through brush as conditions remain dry. Charlotte Fire officials said they have responded to 43 fire calls since Friday.
In Wilkes County, firefighters said some residents have been evacuated as crews battle the Cane Creek fire, just north of Wilkesboro.
[ READ: Brush fire burns 30 acres in Ashe County ]
Local homeowner Brendan Huttick said that fire trucks and personnel have been placed around his home since Monday morning.
“They’re saving houses,” he said. “They just came from another fire where they saved a cabin. We’re hoping and praying that they can save my place and my buddy’s place.”
The North Carolina Forest Service told Channel 9’s Dave Faherty that they have very little containment of the fire, which started yesterday. Officials said they have contained about 5% of the fire.
They said they have used bulldozers to cut fire lines. Channel 9 saw crews digging into the mountainside with rakes, and clearing the lines with leaf blowers.
Officials said they have not yet determined the fire’s cause. Crews are focused on protecting structures along the mountainside.
Traphill Fire volunteers told Faherty that there has been very little rain in the area, and the terrain is challenging.
“Rough…very rough," said volunteer Derrick Brown. “It’s nothing but mountains. Steep. Visibility is very low, especially being up here on the mountain.”
Some locals who were evacuated have begun bringing meals to the firefighters who have been protecting their homes.
The NC Forest Service is working to remind residents that a burn ban is still in place.
FORECAST: Warming up to start the week, rain chance stays slim
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