Fire expands, but poses no immediate threat to humans/structures

The Pickens County fire that surrounded Rocky Mountain above its northern perimeter continued to grow yesterday, but authorities say, for now, it poses no immediate threat to residents and structures.  Early reports yesterday indicated the fire grew northwest toward Buzzard Mountain, but aerial observations confirmed the fire is spreading equally in all directions.  By early afternoon, a layer of smoke covered parts of Oconee–specifically the Jocassee Valley and the Keowee Key area.  Additional fire fighting resources were  requested as the fire expanded an additional 500 acres to approximately 6,000 since the fire started November 9.  Infrared flights last night are to give a more accurate picture of the spread and size.  The fire remains at 35% containment.  Two more hand crews have been ordered today and another Chinook and Type 3 helicopter are on standby to make additional water drops.  The growth of the fire and the number of resources being requested has made the Pinnacle Mountain fire the second-highest ranking incident on the priority list of the Southern Area Coordination center.  The cost of the fire fighting effort–including personnel, time and resources, has exceeded $2 million.