PETERSBURG, W.Va. — The forest fire in Grant County is now estimated to have directly affected more than 50 acres, according to the U.S. Forest Service.
The fire at North Fork Mountain was upgraded to a Type 3 fire because of the extended time and effort to address the issue.
Twenty-five firefighters were assigned to the fire. A helicopter flew over the area on Thursday to assist in planning efforts.
“We are working closely with Grant County 911, Petersburg Volunteer Fire Department and other local agencies,” District Ranger Troy Waskey said in a press release. “We appreciate the local assistance and support we are receiving as we manage this incident.”
Fire officials closed the North Fork Mountain Trail to all public entry from the Landis Trail to the Redman Run Trail. Additional closures are being evaluated.
Visitors are advised to use extreme caution with campfires because of dry conditions.