Families return home after evacuation for wildfire

JACKSONVILLE, N.C. (AP) — Residents in eastern North Carolina are returning home after a weekend wildfire threatened their homes on the Onslow-Pender county line.

Authorities say about 30 homes were evacuated Sunday when the fire broke out.

The North Carolina Forestry Service says the fire started about 1 p.m. and is largely contained. Crews used five plows to dig firebreaks. Sixteen fire and emergency departments from Onslow and Pender counties responded to the scene.

About 20 people went to an evacuation center at the Haws Run Volunteer Fire Department. That center has now closed. There were no injuries.

Although the fire is largely contained, firefighters are asking people to stay clear of the area.