The Beech Mountain fire burned multiple condo units after a lightning strike sparked a blaze early Sunday morning. The fire destroyed several homes and vehicles, but no injuries were reported.
Beech Mountain Fire Burns Condos and Vehicles
The Beech Mountain fire began after lightning struck a condo balcony at Snow Tree Villas on 105 Wedling Weg. The condos sit directly on the ski slopes of Beech Mountain Resort.
The fire was reported around 5:30 a.m. Multiple fire departments responded, but fallen trees from Hurricane Helene blocked access. Fire crews had to cut through debris to reach the scene.
Three condo units were completely destroyed by the fire, and at least two vehicles, including a Jeep, were also burned. Propane tanks on the property vented during the fire, making the blaze more intense and harder to control.
A young man first noticed the flames and quickly called 911. He also alerted neighbors by knocking on doors. Residents staying overnight said explosions from transformers and propane tanks followed the lightning strike. Power lines were knocked down over cars.
Photos showed burning buildings in the background, ski slope equipment shut off, and smoke filling the air. One witness was taken to the police station for warmth after evacuating from the condo. The flames were visible from blocks away and lit the morning sky like a sunrise.
