Wildfires Burn In Parts Of VA, Gov. Youngkin Declares State Of Emergency

VIRGINIA — Two wildfires burning in parts of Virginia consumed more than 4,000 acres this week, prompting Gov. Glenn Youngkin to declare a month-long state of emergency as drought conditions continue in the state.

As of Tuesday, the largest fire — the Quaker Run Fire — was partially located in Shenandoah National Park, while the other burned about 200 miles southwest near the Rocky Knob Recreation Area, according to the Virginia Department of Forestry.

Both blazes broke containment lines in recent days and have been fueled by persistent dry and windy conditions, according to Youngkin's executive order.

"The Commonwealth of Virginia is experiencing multiple wildfires around the state due to extremely dry conditions and high winds, both of which are common during the ongoing fall fire season," the executive order stated. "These fires have and may continue to pose a significant threat to public health and safety."

The Quaker Run Fire, located in Madison County, had burned through 3,350 acres of private, state, and federal lands as of 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, including about 670 acres in Shenandoah National Park, according to the Virginia Department of Forestry and the National Park Service.

NPS officials said the fire was located in the central part of the park near the eastern boundary.

On Tuesday evening, state officials said the fire was 40 percent contained.

Officials said the flames were producing heavy smoke Tuesday, affecting the cities of Syria and Madison, which are closest to the fire. Smoke also affected the central portion of Shenandoah National Park Smoke near Big Meadows, Whiteoak, and Old Rag.

A complete fire ban was enacted effective 8 a.m. Monday, NPS officials said. Hikers are encouraged to avoid the central part of the park.

The second fire — dubbed the Tuggles Gap Fire — had consumed about 850 acres as of Tuesday evening and was 75 percent contained.

Several counties across the state have burn bans in place. Check the Virginia Department of Forestry map for the latest bans.

Youngkin's executive order allows the state to assist in firefighter response efforts and provides state funding and Virginia National Guard support.

The wildfires came as parts of western Virginia continued to experience severe drought, according to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Drought Monitor, while much of the rest of the state remained under moderate drought or abnormally dry conditions.