Firefighters across NC team up against wildfires in Chimney Rock

CHIMNEY ROCK, N.C. — Governor Pat Mcrory will be in Lake Lure Monday to give an update on wildfires in the western part of the state.

North Carolina is one of several southern states where wildfires are currently burning. Some of those fires have been partially contained but others are still out of control.

More than 5,000 firefighters are on hand, with crews coming in from across the country to help.

Photos captured by state fire crews tell a powerful, yet painful story.

Fire crews from all over North Carolina rushed to help along the western edge of the state, where more than 3,000 acres are still on fire.

“Everybody's coming together and working hard trying to protect these structures, and hopefully get this fire out,” Denver Fire Capt. Johnny Roseboro said.

Roseboro and three others from the Denver department are stationed in Chimney Rock and tasked with protecting homes there, as flames continue to edge closer.

Hundreds of firefighters have been battling fires across the North Carolina mountains.

The city of Charlotte sent 17 members and have more on standby. Gastonia crews of four filed in Friday and Sunday, and more are expected Tuesday.

Crews from Anson County, Statesville, and Concord have also joined the fight.

“It's a good feeling to see that there are so many resources from around North Carolina,” Concord Fire Capt. Steven McClendon said.

McClendon is also stationed in Chimney Rock, but in its business district. So far, he said crews there haven't seen any structural damage.

Many of the fire crews have been working 12-hour shifts.

A crew from Denver has planned for a seven day mission, and hope to be back by Saturday.

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