SMOKE HOLE, W.Va. — The Castle Fire is burning again in the Monongahela National Forest, the U.S. Forest Service said Saturday.
The blaze near Smoke Hole began April 14 but three inches of rain a few days later brought it under control. Warm, dry conditions Friday and Saturday caused it to grow again.
The U.S. Forest released the following statement Saturday:
“Dryer and warmer weather brought the Castle Fire back to life Friday. While it is common for wildfire hot spots to smolder in the leaves, stumps and duff around rocks, it is surprising that last week’s rain (over 3 inches!) did not put it out! The Forest Service has two 20 person crews and a helicopter working the fire today.”
The fire was listed at 353 acres Saturday and 90 percent contained.