BLACKSBURG, Va. – Strong gusty winds and dry fall air will raise the risk of wildfires across southwest Virginia and northwest North Carolina today. The National Weather Service has issued an Increased Fire Danger Statement urging residents to avoid outdoor burning as winds strengthen through the afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, southwest winds will increase to 15–25 mph with gusts between 25 and 35 mph. Relative humidity will drop to near 30%, creating ideal conditions for rapid fire spread if any sparks or flames occur. The elevated risk zone includes areas along the Blue Ridge Parkway, from Galax and Wytheville southward into Boone, North Carolina.
Officials advise avoiding any burning of debris, brush, or leaves, and using extreme caution with outdoor equipment that could produce sparks. Campfires and fire pits should also be avoided until conditions improve later tonight.
The gusty pattern is expected to ease overnight as cooler, calmer air settles in by Thursday. Still, fire officials warn that dry fuels could reignite easily if winds pick up again later in the week.
