Tellico Plains, TN (WOKI) Evacuation orders are lifted Wednesday afternoon in Monroe County as emergency crews continue to fight several brush fires that broke out Tuesday.
According to Mayor Mitch Ingram all evacuation orders were lifted around 1:20 p.m. Wednesday. The mayor says the ongoing firefighting efforts have strained both Tellico Plains and Monroe County resources.
“The Tellico Plains Fire Department and all Monroe County volunteer fire departments have exhausted their resources during this response,” Ingram said. “If you would like to support their efforts, monetary donations can be made directly to these departments. Please remember to always support your local emergency responders. Your generosity will help replenish supplies and support the firefighters who worked tirelessly to protect our communities.”
The largest fire, the Holder Cemetery Road Fire, is 15% contained with 200 acres burning while the Rafter Road Fire is 50% contained with 100 acres burning.
Several roads in the Tellico Plains remain closed including Lake Heights, Old Furnace, and Holder Cemetery Road.
Monroe County 911 said anyone who needs help from the Red Cross can call 423-807-6988.
Anyone in Tellico Plains who needs a place to stay after the evacuations are lifted can call city hall at 423-253-2333. The Tellico Plains Community Center is acting as a drop-off point for water, food and snacks for those affected.
