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Operational Control of Table Rock Fire To Return to the Grandfather Ranger District, All Closures Lifted

Summary:  2,579 acres; 90% contained; 113 personnel; Start Date: 11-12-2013

Nov. 25, 2013. Due to successful firefighting efforts and wet weather, the Table Rock Fire is approaching full containment.

Tomorrow morning, Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2013, command of the fire will transfer from the Southern Area Type 2 Team back to the Grandfather Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest. 

Type 2 Initial attack- BIA Oklahoma Hand Crew
Type 2 Initial attack- BIA Oklahoma Hand Crew

All US Forest Service roads and trails under the Forest Closure Order are now open, including Table Rock Picnic Area.  Today is opening day of rifle deer season.  The weather forecast predicts below freezing temperatures.  Hunters and others using the Linville Gorge area are reminded to use standard safety measures with campfires.  Make sure campfires are “dead out” before leaving them.

On Sunday, November 24 the Table Rock Fire continued to show very low fire or smoke activity.  However, reduced humidity, stronger winds, and sunshine resulted in isolated fire activity in some areas of Chimney Creek.  Due to the inaccessibility of the area, a helicopter was used to extinguish the hot spots with water drops. Until significant rain arrives, expect that other hotspots could flare up.  Efforts will continue on the rehabilitation of the fire line.  Table Rock Fire will be monitored during the day for new fire activity.

Monday winds will decrease to 4-7mph gusting to 12mph.  Wind direction will shift coming from the south southeast. Relative humidity will be 20 to 30 percent. Temperatures will be around 18 degrees F in the morning.  Rain and freezing rain are expectedMonday night into early Tuesday.  

Fire traffic will continue to be seen on roads. Crews are still actively commuting between the base camp at Catawba Meadows Park and the fire line. Drive with caution.

The Table Rock wildfire which started November 12th is located in Linville Gorge on the Grandfather Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest.

To see prior stories and photos of ‘Table Rock Fire, including an image of a person of interest sought in connection to Linville Gorge fire, click HERE and HERE