Wildfires on the George Washington & Jefferson National Forest

Update for Friday November 14, 2025

USDA Forest Service fire managers on the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest were notified on Wednesday November 5, of two wildfires, which started on Bald Mountain near Oriskany, Virginia on the Eastern Divide Ranger District. The wildfires are in both Craig and Botetourt counties.

The Bald Mountain Fire is approximately 4,374 acres in size and is 80% contained.

The Lignite Fire is 180 acres in size and is 95% contained.

Resources from the USDA Forest Service, Department of Interior, and local fire and emergency services from both Craig and Botetourt counties supporting the incident includes a total of 93 personnel.

Today, firefighters patrolled the entire fire perimeter and gridded the area for heat signatures. All containment lines were secure at end of shift yesterday and held securely today. Resource advisors are assigned to the incident to identify suppression repair needs.

Smoke over the fire was greatly reduced today but may still be visible in New Castle, Oriskany and surrounding communities as well as along Interstate 81 and State Route 615.

To provide for firefighter and public safety the following roads remain temporarily closed: Forest Service Road 180 Lignite Mine Road from Route 615 to Route 617 in Botetourt County, Forest Service Road 179 Bald Mountain Road, and Forest Service Road 181 in Craig County.

This will be the last update for the Lignite and Bald Mountain Fire.

Tomorrow is the start of gun season for hunting. Please be aware of firefighting personnel in this region and respect the closure signs until the roads are officially reopened. For any further questions, contact the Eastern Divide Ranger District at 540-552-4641, Monday through Friday; 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM.