Local business owners in northeastern North Carolina say the Dare County wildfire hasn't stopped tourists from coming to the beach. The blaze started more than three weeks ago and covers nearly 28,000 acres in and around the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. Forecasters say Dare County is still under heavy smoke and fog advisories for some areas. But Paul Charron says it was business as usual this weekend at his restaurant in Manteo.
Paul Charron: "There are days where it is smokier than other days, but that was before the Memorial Day weekend. So it's kind of hit-or-miss on those days anyway for Manteo. But as far as the Memorial Day weekend, so far it's been fantastic."
The fire jumped containment lines less than a week ago, threatening the town of Stumpy Point. But wildlife officials say weather conditions were favorable for firefighters this weekend. The fire is about 75 percent contained and no evacuations have been ordered.