Wildfire in Coastal North Carolina

It has been eleven days since a lightning strike sparked the wildfire at the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge in Eastern North Carolina. Over forty-two thousand acres have burned despite efforts by regional firefighters to contain the blaze. Fifty homes have been evacuated as smoke has been carried by shifting winds throughout most of the northeastern counties in the state.

Although some spot showers have occured there has not been a significant downpour to aid emergency workers trying to contain the blaze. As of Wednesday afternoon, authorities report the fire is only forty percent contained.

People from as far south as Havelock and New Bern have reported seeing and smelling the smoke; calls to the local emergency services and news stations have indicated the sharp-smelling odor and limited visibility affecting many neighborhoods.

As the winds continue to shift over the next few days, health workers recommend avoiding unnecessary exposure, remaining indoors, especially if an air conditioner is available. The dangers of smoke inhalation are a concern, and those with asthma or other lung disease should remain indoors as much as possible, keeping an emergency rescue breathing device at hand if available.

Although some people will notice a dryness of their throat, and occasional coughing, doctors recommend an air conditioned room to quickly clear up any minor irritations. Should the conditions persist or worsen, to include a chronic cough or tightness across the chest, those affected should seek medical attention immediately.

Firefighters from all over the region - paid and volunteer - have been called in to try and contain the fire, but the weather has not been cooperative. With oppressive record-breaking heat, and no effective rain, heat-related incidents keep the relief efforts slowed. At this time it is expected to take weeks before the fires are contained, and the smoke will likely linger through most of the summer unless a storm system can lay a good soaking and alleviate the dry conditions in the area.