POWELL COUNTY, Ky. (WKYT) — Multiple forest fires are burning across parts of Kentucky as dry and windy conditions continue, with one blaze forcing closures in a popular area of the Red River Gorge.
The fire in Powell County has shut down access to sections of the Gorge, including Tunnel Ridge Road past Gray’s Arch and nearby trails, as crews work to contain the flames.
Wildfires are also active across several parts of the Bluegrass region, including Perry, Whitley, and Floyd counties. Crews remain on the ground working to contain those fires.
“Early this morning we received notice that there was a wildfire somewhere in the Auxier Ridge area of the Red River Gorge,” said Mary O’Malley with the Daniel Boone National Forest.
Officials said crews responded quickly, establishing containment lines and continuing to monitor the situation.
“We have folks monitoring it and we are fortunately looking at some rain in the forecast, but that’s no guarantee that anything will be able to reopen quickly. We don’t have an official cause at this time, but we are certain that it was human caused,” O’Malley said.
Abandoned campfires a growing concern
The U.S. Forest Service is reminding visitors about proper campfire safety, emphasizing that fires must be completely extinguished before leaving.
“I have personally put out two fires just within the last week. Two campfires that were abandoned,” said Angela Hughes, a Powell County resident.
Hughes said visitors often fail to fully extinguish fires, adding that the issue appears worse this year.
Officials say preventing wildfires can be as simple as taking a few extra minutes.
“Just take a stick, stir it a little bit, pour some water in it, drench it and stir it some more, drench it again, make sure it’s cold before you leave. And that way we can prevent any forest fire,” O’Malley said.
Officials noted that wildfire season in the region runs through the end of April, though fires can occur at any time. Visitors are urged to avoid closed areas, check air quality conditions, and ensure all campfires are fully extinguished.
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