CHARLOTTE (Queen City News) – If you smelled smoke or saw haze around Charlotte on Thursday, there’s a reason.
The work is part of firefighting operations under the Uwharrie National Forest plan, according to the U.S. Forest Service. Firefighters say burning helps reduce overgrown vegetation, lowers wildfire risks and improves habitat for plants and animals.
Forecast: Sunny Thursday brings spring-like weekend to Charlotte
If weather conditions remain favorable, planned burns could continue throughout the weekend.
Neighboring residents may sometimes notice smoke. Officials recommend that if you encounter smoke while driving, you should slow down and turn on your headlights.
Photo: Queen City News Tower Camera/3/5/26
The Forest Service said the burns are closely monitored and may be delayed if conditions change.
Uwharrie National Forest is about an hour and 13 minutes drive from uptown Charlotte.
Controlled burns underway in South Carolina
South of Charlotte, the South Carolina Forest Service is conducting a controlled burn on about 80 acres in the area between McConnell Road and Brattonsville Road.
Additionally, four other controlled burn incidents occurred in Chester County. The York County Sheriff’s Office said there are currently 227 prescribed burns in South Carolina.
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