Wed AM Update for Bee Rock Branch Fire: Evacuation order to remain in place for Wild Acres Rd.

McDowell County, NC – Emergency personnel from local, state and federal agencies continue to respond to the Bee Rock Branch Fire, which remains active north of Armstrong Creek Road and south of Wild Acres Road in McDowell County. The NC Forest Service still estimates the fire has burned 175 acres with 0% containment as of Wednesday morning.

An evacuation order issued on April 15, 2025, for all residents on Wild Acres Road, including the Wild Acres Retreat, remains in effect and will continue until further notice. Residents are urged to stay clear of the area and follow all instructions from emergency personnel.

Firefighting efforts continue with forestry crews and personnel from multiple fire departments working together to strengthen containment lines and monitor fire behavior. At this time, no structures have been lost, and no injuries have been reported.

The incident is being managed under unified command by the U.S. Forest Service, N.C. Forest Service, Woodlawn Fire Department, and McDowell County Emergency Management.
Click to view McDowell County’s live evacuation map.

Further updates will be provided as conditions change.