Horton Wildfire (near Blowing Rock) Saturday, November 26, 2016 7pm Update

WATAUGA COUNTY, NC (November 26, 2016)…Horton fire managers are waiting to raise the containment percentage of the fire until the threat of high winds has passed. Progress on the Horton fire is looking good, but with a forecast for up to 30 mph wind gusts, there is a high potential for fire spread given the extremely dry conditions. Once fire managers can ensure the established fire lines will hold against increased wind speeds, they will reassess the 65% containment level.

The fire is still approximately 1,450 acres. Nearly 125 personnel, representing approximately 25 agencies, are assigned to the Horton fire. The support of neighboring volunteer fire departments have been crucial in containment efforts.

Incident objectives for tonight are focused on emergency responders and public safety, while preparing for severe wind gusts. “It is critical that we keep the fire within the containment area, without exposing any of our responders to undue risk,” said Incident Commander Weeks. Night crews will continue patrol for hot spots along the north and southeast ends of the fire.

Smoke is expected to settle through the evening and early morning, continuing to affect visibility from Watson Road up to the Dugger Fire Tower Road. The public is asked to avoid this area and Sampson Road south of the Blue Ridge Parkway for the safety of firefighters and local residents.

Responders are humbled by the appreciation and support from the community. Even the simplest “thank you” has touched firefighters. Thank you for showing your support! For those wishing to donate any food or supplies, please consider a cash donation to the Red Cross instead.

There are no additional media briefings scheduled at this time. Follow us on Twitter @FireHorton and the HortonFire.blogspot.com for any further updates or changes.

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Thank you to the Boone McDonald’s for donating close to 80 hot breakfasts, orange juice and milk! Firefighters coming off a long, cold, and dark night shift on the Horton Fire sure appreciated hot breakfast.  Pictured are firefighters from the #RondaFireDepartment and the #TraphillVolFireDepartment enjoying their breakfast.

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Past Horton Wildfire News…

From the Caldwell Journal on 11-26-2016:
Horton Wildfire (near Blowing Rock) Saturday, November 26, 2016 8:30am Update

From the Caldwell Journal on 11-25-2016:
Horton Wildfire (near Blowing Rock) Friday, November 25, 2016 7:30pm Update

From the Watauga Democrat on 11-25-2016:
Sampson blaze at 1,400 acres; firefighters prep for increased winds

From the Caldwell Journal on Thursday, November 25, 2016:
Horton Wildfire (near Blowing Rock) Friday, November 25, 2016 9am Update

From the Caldwell Journal on Thursday, November 24, 2016:
Remarkable Thanksgiving Feast for Firefighters at the Horton Wildfire (near Blowing Rock)

From the Caldwell Journal on Thursday, November 24, 2016:
Horton Wildfire (near Blowing Rock) Thursday, November 24, 2016 9am Update

From the Caldwell Journal on Wednesday, November 23, 2016:
Horton Wildfire (near Blowing Rock) Wednesday, November 23, 2016 2pm Update

From the Caldwell Journal on 11-23-2016:
Horton Wildfire (near Blowing Rock) Wednesday, November 23, 2016 8:30am Update

From N.C. Emergency Management on 11-22-2016:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/ncdps/sets/72157676888623606/with/30377266794/

From the Caldwell Journal on 11-22-2016:
Horton Fire (near Blowing Rock) Update 11/22/16…Photos Included

From WBTV on 11-22-2016:
Watauga wildfire, possibly deliberately set, could grow to 1,000 acres

From the Watauga Democrat on 11-22-2016:
Horton Fire grows to 800 acres, 20% contained…Including Video below