Despite the monumental deluge Helene dumped on the region in late September and the catastrophic flooding, officials have warned about elevated wildfire risks.

The sprawling bureaucracy at the multiple levels of government has handicapped rebuilding efforts since Hurricane Helene struck, private aid organizations said.

The Crooked Creek Fire started near Old Fort, North Carolina Wednesday afternoon. Evacuations were ordered for several roads near the fire.

At least three wildfires ignited on Wednesday near North Carolina towns that were devastated by Hurricane Helene. The largest of the fires was estimated to have consumed 200 acres near the town of Marion and forced evacuations.