(WBIR-COCKE COUNTY) The Silver Mine Fire burning in the Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina has spread to more than 500 acres.
The wildfire has closed Forest Service Roads 31 and 422, which are also known as Hurricane Creek Road and Shad Road in Cocke County, Tenn.
The blaze has also closed the following roads and trails on the Pisgah:
- Hwy 25/70 East of Hot Springs
- Hurricane Gap Rd
- Mill Ridge Rd
- Appalachian Trail from Hot Springs to Hurricane Gap
- Lovers Leap Loop Trail
- Pump Gap Trail
The USDA Forest Service said several structures are threatened. Crews are working to protect them.
Thursday night air tankers from Chattanooga flew in for a series of three drops on the west side of the first to protect private property.
Investigators are looking into the cause of the fire.
