BERKELEY SPRINGS, WV (SWVO) – UPDATE: Morgan County 911 says the fire has now grown to 260 acres as of Wednesday evening.
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Firefighters are continuing to battle a wildfire at Cacapon Resort State Park in Morgan County that has burned approximately 160 to 170 acres as of Wednesday, November 11.
The fire, known as the Kessel Fire, was first reported Monday afternoon and has continued spreading despite efforts to contain it.
According to a Wednesday afternoon update from Morgan County Emergency Communications, the fire was approximately 30% contained as of midmorning Wednesday.
Officials reported that controlled backburning operations along the northwest side of the fire were successful in containing that section. Crews are planning additional backburning operations along the northeast side, weather permitting.
The controlled burns are intended to remove vegetation that could fuel the wildfire and strengthen containment lines.
Additional local fire departments have been assigned to the Kessel Road area to help protect nearby homes and other structures.
Earlier Wednesday, firefighters reported that flames had crossed containment lines and reached treetops in some areas, raising concerns about nearby properties along Polish Lane.
The West Virginia Division of Forestry, local fire departments and forestry personnel from Pennsylvania are assisting with the response. West Virginia National Guard helicopters have also been used to drop water on the fire.
Officials said dead trees, fallen timber and dry vegetation have made containment efforts more difficult. Many of the dead trees were damaged by an emerald ash borer infestation, providing additional fuel for the wildfire.
Firefighters are also using chainsaws to remove hazardous trees and clear areas needed to establish containment lines.
The fire has primarily affected Cacapon Resort State Park and nearby uninhabited property.
Portions of the park, including the Overlook Trail north of the Batt Picnic Shelter and the Upper Lake, have been restricted to public access during firefighting operations.
Officials are urging residents and visitors to stay away from the affected areas and avoid roads being used by emergency crews.
Smoke is expected to remain visible as firefighting operations continue.
As of the latest Wednesday afternoon update, the fire remained active, and officials had not announced when full containment was expected.
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