A fast-moving wildfire in the NC mountains continued to challenge emergency crews this morning after erupting in the Elk Valley community near Banner Elk and Beech Mountain.

The National Weather Service reported that the fire had already burned more than 120 acres and remained only 50% contained by 9 a.m.

Multiple fire departments, Avery County Emergency Management, and the North Carolina Forest Service responded quickly as flames spread across steep terrain, producing heavy smoke and reducing visibility. Crews worked through difficult conditions late Monday and into Tuesday as shifting winds pushed the fire deeper into wooded areas.

State officials said Highway 194 remains completely shut down between Sam Eller Road and Edgar Tufts Road due to dangerous conditions. Drivers are being ur

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