BEDFORD COUNTY, Va. - The Matts Creek fire continues to rage in Bedford County, having consumed a staggering 10,106 acres as of Monday morning, according to the US Forest Service. The fire, which remains at 27% containment, started on Sunday, November 12, and the cause has yet to be determined.

Firefighting Operations:

Efforts to contain the fire have been underway, with firefighters conducting a successful strategic firing operation south of Glasgow and east of Greenlee. Using a helicopter, crews removed fuel in the area between the James River and Belfast Creek, providing enhanced protection for surrounding communities and the forest itself. This operation aimed to prevent the spread of the fire and decrease the risk of intense fire behavior and long-duration smoke.

Positive conditions allowed for a low-intensity burn with no spot fires reported. This controlled burn served to decrease leaf litter, remove brush, and moderate fire behavior, while causing minimal damage to the trees. It helped move the fire over slopes and into flatter terrains, allowing firefighters to safely engage the fire and increasing the chances of halting its westward spread.

Progress Updates:

In the northeastern portion of the fire near Snowden, crews have been diligently working to improve fire lines, resulting in a positive outlook as forward progression has ceased. This area is currently being searched and any remaining "hot spots" in logs, stumps, and underground are being extinguished.

The southeastern portion, near Big Island and Powells Store, reported minimal fire activity. Firefighters have patrolled the area, ensuring the removal of fire-damaged trees.

In the southwestern area, fire lines have proven effective, leading to an increase in containment to 27%.

Hercules Fire:

Firefighters have also been monitoring the nearby Hercules Fire, which started across the James River. The fire, which measures slightly under one acre, has garnered attention from a local volunteer fire department. Crews will continue their watch throughout the day.

Weather Outlook and Fire Behavior:

Today's weather forecast predicts temperatures in the lower 50s along with humidity ranging between 40-60 percent. Winds are expected to be east, reaching speeds of 5-10 miles per hour and shifting to east/southeast in the afternoon. After midnight, there may be increased cloud cover and light winds. Tuesday is anticipated to bring steady rainfall, potentially becoming heavier at times, with an estimated accumulation of 1-2 inches. Winds will remain relatively calm, hovering around 5-10 mph. Fire activity is expected to increase later in the afternoon due to these conditions.

Smoke and Air Quality:

Communities and roadways near the fire area should be prepared for heavy smoke today. Authorities advise monitoring smoke reports from the incident air resource advisor at outlooks.wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlook and checking air quality updates on AirNow.gov. Motorists are urged to exercise caution while driving in low-visibility conditions.

Public Safety Measures:

A Temporary Flight Restriction is currently in place around the fire area, ensuring the safety of aerial operations. Road closures include Petites Gap Road (FSR35) between the Belfast Trailhead and the Blue Ridge Parkway and a potential extension of the closure to the intersection of Arnold Valley Road (SR 781) and Back Run Road due to fire activity.

Moreover, the Blue Ridge Parkway has been temporarily closed from milepost 66.3 to milepost 85.9 until further notice. Visitors to the park should plan an alternative route using adjacent roads and Interstate 81.

Additionally, the James River Face Wilderness and associated trails, including a section of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, are closed to the public. Several other areas are temporarily closed to ensure public and firefighter safety.

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are currently in effect for all lands administered by the George Washington & Jefferson National Forest. These restrictions prohibit the building, maintaining, attending, or using of fires or campfires outside of developed recreation sites. However, campfires in Forest Service provided metal fire pits, rings, or grills at established recreation sites are permitted.

The firefighting efforts will continue with firefighters searching for hot spots, improving containment lines, and monitoring for potential hazards. Structures along Hunt Camp Road and the western side of the fire will be assessed, and protection plans will be developed if necessary. The fire will be monitored overnight.

As the Matts Creek fire remains a challenge for firefighters, residents and visitors to the area are encouraged to stay informed about road closures, air quality, and any updates provided by local authorities.