Horton Wildfire (near Blowing Rock) Saturday, November 26, 2016 8:30am Update

WATAUGA COUNTY, NC (November 26, 2015)…As of 8:30 a.m., the Horton Fire remains at 65% contained and is approximately 1,450 acres. There are approximately 125 personnel representing approximately 25 agencies assigned to the Horton Fire. Fire personnel have responded from as far away as New Jersey, Florida, Arizona, Idaho and Montana.

Incident objectives for today are focused on providing for firefighter and public safety, while protecting homes within and near the fire area. With forecasted wind gusts expected up to 30 mph through the weekend, fire crews are focusing on keeping the fire within the containment area between Reynolds Parkway, Dugger Fire Tower Road, and Sampson Road. Night patrol crews detected additional deep, hotspots flaring up along the north and southeast ends of the fire. Fire crews are focusing on extinguishing heat in these areas ahead of the wind.

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 to provide for the safety of firefighters and local residents.

The outpouring of support from the community has been appreciated. We are asking that anyone wishing to donate any food or supplies to 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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Past Horton Wildfire News…

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