Cleveland, TN (WOKI) A cluster of fires burning in the Cherokee National Forest is being investigated as arson.

Forest officials report there are three fires altogether, collectively being called the Buck Bald Fire:

• Hogum Hollo 44 acres, North Zone, 2 miles SW of Roan Mountain
• Bullet 78 acres, South Zone, 5 miles SE of Etowah
• Buck Bald 140 acres, South Zone

“We’re seeing a rapid increase in wildfires across the forest placing people, homes and infrastructure at great risk,” said Stephanie Bland, deputy forest supervisor with the Cherokee National Forest. “Human-caused fires take valuable resources away from the protection of people and structures making dry conditions much more dangerous for everyone.”

Officials say the situation is exacerbated by drought and dry conditions. They say some structures are at risk but add that firefighters are working to keep people and property safe.