WILMINGTON, North Carolina – A warm, hazy sunrise paints the coastal sky this Wednesday morning as dry air and steady winds bring an elevated fire danger to southeast North Carolina. The National Weather Service in Wilmington has issued a Fire Danger Statement, warning residents that gusty conditions and very low humidity could quickly turn even small burns into fast-moving brush fires.
Relative humidity levels are expected to fall near 25 to 30 percent this afternoon, with west-southwest winds of 10 to 15 mph gusting up to 25 mph. The combination of dry vegetation, gusty flow, and mild warmth will make outdoor burning risky. Residents are urged to avoid debris fires and check with local burn permitting authorities before lighting anything. “If you must burn,” forecasters caution, “use extreme caution and keep water sources nearby.”
Temperatures will rise to the mid-70s today under mostly clear skies, followed by cooler, calmer air moving in Thursday. High pressure takes control to end the week, delivering a run of clear, sunny days and comfortably cool nights—ideal for outdoor projects or fall beach trips.
By Friday, highs will dip into the low 70s, with light winds and humidity increasing slightly. The weekend remains mild and dry, with highs near 68°F Saturday and plenty of sunshine for local events and yard work.
After today’s brief fire danger window, Wilmington settles into one of the most pleasant stretches of October—clear skies, light breezes, and cool, comfortable evenings that mark the heart of coastal fall.
Five-Day Forecast for Wilmington, NC:
Wed: 75/49 – Breezy, dry; fire danger elevated.
Thu: 72/48 – Sunny, light northwest wind.
Fri: 70/47 – Clear and mild; calm air.
Sat: 68/50 – Sunny, dry fall air.
Sun: 69/53 – Mostly sunny; mild afternoon.
