CREWS FIGHTING 170 ACRE BRUSH FIRE IN SEVIER COUNTY
SEVIER COUNTY, Tenn. (WVLT) – On Sunday, the Sevier County Emergency Management Agency said crews were still actively working to contain a fire that started Saturday.
Officials said the brush fire was near Youngblood Way and Rocky Flats Road. According to the Tennessee Division of Forestry, the fire is approximately 170 acres and 85% contained.
“The status of a wildfire suppression action signifying that a control line has been completed around the fire, and any associated spot fires, which can reasonably be expected to stop the fire’s spread,” an update stated.
A Forestry spokesperson said two cabins were evacuated as of 2:25 p.m. Saturday.
Those in the area are urged to be cautious as firefighters work to contain the fire.
“The public should avoid areas impacted by the fire,” officials said. “Fire crews….request residents remain prepared to take action if threatened by the fire.”
In addition, emergency personnel asked people to refrain from open debris burning and to extinguish any active piles burning. All drones were also asked to be grounded, Cocke County Emergency Management Agency officials said.
Some parts of Sevier County are in a moderate drought, with other elevations having abnormally dry conditions, in addition to the wind in the area.
“There is weather moving in with increased winds which could spread the smallest of a fire,” officials said.
Residents in the area may continue to see and smell smoke throughout the weekend as crews stay on the scene.