Raleigh, North Carolina – Temperatures surging into the mid-90s combined with humidity as low as 21 percent are sharply increasing wildfire danger across central North Carolina today, with outdoor burning strictly prohibited.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, highs will reach between 90 and 95 degrees statewide Saturday, while relative humidity drops into the low 20 percent range through 8 p.m., creating ideal conditions for fires to ignite and spread. The North Carolina Forest Service has a statewide burn ban in effect.
Cities including Raleigh, Durham, Fayetteville, and Goldsboro are all seeing peak heat paired with critically dry air, while areas like Sanford and Rocky Mount could dip to around 21 percent humidity during the hottest part of the afternoon. Even light winds can accelerate fire spread under these conditions.
Officials urge residents to avoid any outdoor burning, properly dispose of cigarettes, and use caution with equipment that could spark flames. Hydration and limiting outdoor activity during peak heat are also recommended.
Conditions remain dry into the evening before humidity gradually recovers overnight, but fire risk will stay elevated as long as dry air persists. Additional restrictions or advisories could follow if conditions worsen.
