Yadkinville, NC — A Red Flag Warning has been issued for the foothills and north-central regions of North Carolina on Saturday, as dry air, gusty winds, and parched vegetation combine to create critical fire weather conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, the warning will be in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. EDT. Counties included in the alert are Surry, Stokes, Rockingham, Caswell, Wilkes, and Yadkin.
Forecasters expect west winds of 15 to 20 mph, with gusts reaching 30 mph. Relative humidity levels may drop as low as 15 percent, drastically increasing the potential for wildfires to ignite and spread rapidly.
Officials strongly advise against any outdoor burning during the warning period. Dry fuels and windy conditions could lead to fires escaping containment or rapidly expanding in open areas.
This fire weather event arrives during a period when spring vegetation is still dormant, heightening fire susceptibility. Local emergency crews are on alert, and residents should follow all local fire restrictions and monitor emergency updates throughout the day Saturday.
