Franklin – U.S. Forest Service firefighters from the Nantahala and Tusquitee Ranger districts are assigned to a forest fire near Winding Stairs Gap in Macon County.
The fire was first reported near the U.S. 64 roadside Monday morning, and the West Macon Fire and Rescue Department was able to contain a section of the outbreak.
However, the fire was burning rapidly in steep, rugged terrain and soon reached 100 acres. The fire is said to be within one mile from the Appalachian Trail and close to ½ mile from structures.
Local firefighters from the Cheoah Ranger District in Robbinsville are covering initial attack responsibilities for the Tusquitee Ranger District as well as the Cheoah.
As of Wednesday morning, the fire was 50% contained.