Gatlinburg, TN (WOKI) A fire in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that broke out last month has grown again.
Park officials providing an update Thursday say The Flint Gap Fire which was sparked by lightning on August 26 has grown to 58 acres, a 12 acre increase since the last update from the park earlier this week.
According to the park, the fire is smoldering rather than actually burning, and recent rainfall has helped stem it from growing even more. Officials are warning though that there is room for concern as the fall season looms, with falling leaves offering an opportunity for the fire to continue spreading.
“While fire activity is currently minimal, there is a potential for increased burning as leaves drop and weather conditions change.,” the park said. “Despite some rain this week, precipitation levels remain low and no significant moisture is forecasted for the next several weeks. In preparation of changing conditions, fire staff continue to execute a full suppression strategy.”
Visitors may see more firefighting equipment near the Abrams Creek area, the park said, as crews continue to fight the fire and clear pathways to make it easier to get into the area where the fire is burning.
As of now, the fire is uncontained, but there is no threat to campgrounds or any structures. Parson Branch Road, several trails and backcountry campsites remain closed due to fire activity.
