Fire crews reply to massive wildfire close to Ocean Isle Beach

A large wildfire that broke out in Brunswick County on Friday night is still burning as of Saturday, with weather conditions contributing to the fire’s “erratic” behavior, according to the N.C. Forest Service.

The fire began on Old Georgetown Road and Hale Swamp Road near the Ocean Isle Beach and Shallotte areas, according to the N.C. Forest Service. Several municipal and county fire departments and state agencies — including the Forest Service and the Office of the State Fire Marshal — are responding to the fire.

Around 11:30 a.m., the fire was 400 to 500 acres and 50% contained, the Forest Service said. That’s up from Friday night, when it was 300 acres and 60% contained. Extreme heat, Dry conditions and gusty winds are causing the fire to behave erratically. Firefighters were working to put out a spot fire Saturday morning.

The 800 block of Bricklanding Road, the Bricklanding roundabout and Todd Road are closed while agencies work to contain the fire, the Forest Service said at 2:30 p.m. Saturday. Smoke from the fire may affect the nearby towns of Shallotte, Boiling Springs and St. James. Drivers are encouraged to avoid the area near Old Georgetown Road and Hale Swamp Road if possible,

The Forest Service warned in opposition to flying drones over the affected space, saying it’s unlawful and endangers low-flying firefighting plane. The Brunswick County government has not given evacuation orders.

This is a developing story and will be updated.