PENDLETON COUNTY W.Va. (WVDN) – Fact sheet regarding Woodside fire:
Size: Approximately 70-80 acres
Location: South of Circleville, near the community of Big Mountain
Containment: 30%
Cause: Under Investigation
Resources: Approximately 70 personnel, 2 crews, 1 dozer, and 1 helicopter
Start Date: November 5, 2025
Status: On Wednesday, November 5, 2025, a private landowner detected smoke south of Circleville, WV in Pendleton County. Pendleton County emergency personnel immediately contacted the USDA Forest Service who responded. This wildfire is being managed under unified command with the State of West Virginia and the USDA Forest Service, Monongahela National Forest. Initial acreage was estimated at 50 acres, with active, wind driven fire. The fire is burning in an oak-hickory forest type, with very steep, mountainous terrain making ground access difficult. Safety of firefighters and the public are the top priorities.
Planned Operations: Firefighters will continue to build and reinforce containment lines around the perimeter of the fire. Ground operations are supported by engines and hand crews. A Type-2 helicopter has been ordered and is scheduled to arrive later today.
Public Safety: Smoke may be visible in Circleville, Big Mountain, Thornwood, and surrounding communities. Motorists are asked to be mindful as smoke can shift and may affect visibility while driving. Dry and windy conditions continue to create elevated fire danger across the area. Residents and visitors are strongly encouraged to avoid outdoor burning and to practice responsible fire safety at all times.
Weather Forecast: Mostly cloudy today, with a high near 47. West, northwest winds around 10-15mph. Partly cloudy tonight, with a low of 29. southwest winds at 5 to 10 mph. Warmer tomorrow with a high of 58 degrees, and south-southwest winds at 10 to 20 mph. The low relative humidity and moderate winds mean the area remains in extreme fire danger.
Closures: None. Public are asked to stay out of the fire area for safety of themselves and firefighting resources.
Air Operations: A Type-2 helicopter with water-dropping capabilities has been ordered and is scheduled to arrive later today. A reminder – flying drones over the fire is prohibited. Drones endanger our pilots and firefighters. If drones are detected near the fire, any air operations supporting the fire will stop.
