Raleigh, North Carolina – Outdoor fires could spread rapidly within minutes Monday afternoon as gusty winds and very low humidity create dangerous conditions across central and western North Carolina.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, an Increased Fire Danger is in effect from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday for areas along and west of U.S. 1, including the Triangle and Piedmont. Wind gusts between 20 and 25 mph combined with relative humidity values as low as 25 percent will create an environment where any spark can quickly grow out of control.
Cities including Raleigh, Durham, Greensboro, and Fayetteville face elevated risk, especially in open fields, wooded areas, and near roadways where dry vegetation is present. Stronger winds are most likely across the western Piedmont, increasing the chance that small fires could spread across multiple acres in a short time.
Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning, properly dispose of cigarettes, and avoid using equipment that may produce sparks during peak hours. Even routine yard work could ignite dry grass under these conditions.
The fire danger will diminish after 10 p.m. as winds ease and humidity recovers, but additional advisories could be issued if dry conditions persist into midweek.
