Virginia Wildfires Ravage Shenandoah, Governor Youngkin Declares Emergency Response
March 23, 2024
Wildfires in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley have caused significant damage, destroying 10-20 structures and burning over 3,400 acres.
The Luray Complex fires are partly contained, but a smaller fire remains at 0% containment.
The Rocky Branch Fire, managed by the Southern Area Red Complex Incident Management Team, has been partially contained due to recent rainfall.
There are trail and road closures, as well as a complete fire ban in Shenandoah National Park.
A separate 300-acre fire in Augusta County and a fatal vehicle crash have exacerbated the region's emergency situation.
Governor Glenn Youngkin has launched a regional emergency response, including fuel, meals, and support personnel to assist the firefighting efforts.
The state's emergency management is actively involved in providing logistics and assessing damage, while local officials are seeking a state emergency declaration.
The fires have caused trail and school closures, evacuations, and property damage, but state resources and rainfall are helping to combat the situation.
Summary based on 9 sources
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Sources

Time • Mar 23, 2024
Rain Helps Contain Still-Burning Virginia Wildfires
Yahoo News • Mar 23, 2024
New team arrives to contain Shenandoah National Park Rocky Branch fire
The Independent • Mar 23, 2024
Rain helps contain still-burning wildfires in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley; state sending more aid