ROANOKE COUNTY, Va. – March 23, 7:30 p.m. UPDATE:
The fire has shrunk to approximately 160 acres and is now 90% contained, according to the Virginia Department of Forestry’s website.
March 23 UPDATE:
The George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Eastern Divide Ranger District has confirmed that the Catawba fire located in Northern Roanoke County has expanded to around 482 acres.
The fire is around 3 miles south of the Audie Murphy Monument, and now takes up National Forest System land and private land. Authorities say it is around 20% contained as of 2:30 p.m. on Sunday.
The Appalachian National Scenic Trail is closed from Craig Creek Road to Miller Cove Road for public safety.
We will update you here with more information as it becomes available.
Original Story:
The U.S. Forest Service is now in command of a Roanoke County fire near Catawba, Roanoke County Fire and Rescue Department said.
Officials said crews are working to contain a fire on the 8800 block of Newport Road. There is a detour at Sandy Ridge due to the fire.
Upon arrival, units found a large brush fire in the area of the Audie Murphy Memorial, near the Roanoke County and Craig County line. Units from Craig, Montgomery, and Roanoke Counties are all assisting in containing the fire.
The U.S. Forest Service is in command of the fire and the Roanoke County units are working to protect homes in the area. No residences have been damaged as of 5 p.m. on Saturday. The Virginia Department of Forestry is also on scene with bulldozers to help with containment.
The cause of the fire is currently unknown. Crews are requesting that locals avoid the area due to heavy smoke and the danger of fire. The blaze is currently estimated to span between 200 and 250 acres.
WSLS 10 News is in the area now. We’re working for you to find out more on this developing situation. We will update you as information becomes available.
