RONCEVERTE W.Va. (WVDN) – A brush fire broke out in the area of Hokes Mill Covered Bridge on Wednesday, March 20. The fire raged up a hill nearing a family’s home. According to the homeowner, Derrek Marcus, firefighters arrived in the nick of time to protect the house. Even so, items outside the home such as a treehouse, an ATV and others were lost to the fire. Additionally, flames got close enough to melt the home’s siding. Marcus said, “It seemed as though the fire blew up the hillside in a hurry.” Thankfully, the family is safe.
Recent weather conditions, including low humidity and elevated wind, have contributed to a higher-than-normal fire danger in much of Southern West Virginia. The statewide 5 p.m. burning law remains in effect, but officials advise avoiding burning altogether until the fire danger level goes down. Additionally, residents are advised to avoid working with machinery that creates sparks and to use extra caution when disposing of cigarettes. The West Virginia Division of Forestry website shows a map with current danger levels.
