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News Release Date: November 21, 2023
Contact:
Emily Davis, 865-440-0066
GATLINBURG, Tenn.—Late last night, firefighters mapped the Rich Mountain Fire and estimated the fire’s size at less than 2 acres. Around 2 a.m. today, winds from the south caused the fire to grow to about 6 acres. The fire is burning in steep, rugged terrain and is burning primarily in the park boundary at this time.
On November 20, a helicopter was used until dusk to deliver water for suppression efforts. In addition, Townsend Volunteer Fire Department and Blount County supported the initial response.
Today, firefighters are continuing to improve line around the fire. Current resources include:
- two Tennessee Department of Forestry dozers,
- the park’s Wildland Fire module with seven crew members,
- a type-6 engine from Cherokee National Forest with four crew members,
- the park’s type-6 engine with two crew members.
The National Park Service has ordered additional resources, including air support and more engines. If conditions allow, air resources will be used today to assist fire resources in suppression efforts.
Blount County coordinated an early-morning voluntary evacuation of homes near the park boundary. High wind and red flag warnings remain in effect for the area until later today. Several roads and campgrounds within the park remain closed for employee and visitor safety. A parkwide burn ban is also in effect until further notice.
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Last updated: November 21, 2023