MOREHEAD CITY, N.C. – A heightened fire danger is in effect across much of North Carolina today as gusty westerly winds and very dry air combine to create favorable conditions for outdoor fires to spread quickly. The National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City warns that any sparks or open flames could ignite grass or brush, particularly during the afternoon hours.
According to the NWS Morehead City office, relative humidity levels will drop to between 25 and 35 percent this afternoon while westerly winds increase to 10–15 mph, with gusts reaching up to 25 mph. The greatest risk will occur from late morning through early evening, when conditions are driest and winds peak.
Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning, use caution with grills or fire pits, and properly extinguish cigarettes and matches. Officials also recommend avoiding parking vehicles on dry grass and delaying debris burning until conditions improve later this week.
The fall fire season continues through November, and the combination of cool, dry air and gusty winds can quickly turn small flames into dangerous wildfires. Cooler, calmer weather is expected to return Thursday, bringing a slight reduction in fire risk heading into the weekend.
