Crews Gain Ground on Jumping Branch Fire Near Marion

Firefighters battling the Jumping Branch Fire in the Pisgah National Forest made progress on March 30, reaching 20% containment as crews continue working in steep, rugged terrain northwest of Marion.

The fire, reported March 29, has grown to 185 acres and is burning about eight miles northwest of Marion in the Grandfather Ranger District. A total of 153 personnel are assigned to the incident, according to officials.

On Monday, crews worked to strengthen firelines from ridge tops down into Locust Cove, Sugar Cove, and Sam’s Creek, using natural terrain and containment features left from previous wildfires where possible.

Firefighters are expected to continue efforts Tuesday with strategic firing operations — intentionally burning vegetation between control lines and the main fire — to limit further spread. Aircraft will also remain active, assisting ground crews with water and fire retardant drops.

Officials warn that smoke will remain visible in nearby communities, including Buck Creek and Marion.

The fire is burning in an area heavily impacted by Hurricane Helene, where numerous downed trees have increased fire intensity and created additional hazards for crews.

Unified command includes the U.S. Forest Service, North Carolina Forest Service, McDowell County Emergency Management, and PG Fire & Rescue, along with volunteer fire departments from McDowell and surrounding counties.

Drivers are urged to avoid NC-80 in the Buck Creek area due to active firefighting operations and reduced visibility from smoke.

A Temporary Flight Restriction is also in place over the fire zone. Officials emphasize that drones and unauthorized aircraft are prohibited, warning that interference with firefighting aircraft could put lives at risk.

“If you fly, we can’t,” officials said.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.