South Carolina and North Carolina — Pale winter sunlight spreads across dry fields this morning, and leaves skitter along sidewalks in quick gusts. The air feels crisp, but it’s dangerously dry. By late morning, fire danger ramps up quickly across the western Piedmont and foothills.
The National Weather Service warns of increased fire danger from 11 a.m. through the afternoon across Upstate South Carolina, western North Carolina, and northeast Georgia. Relative humidity drops into the 20–25% range, while southwest winds turn breezy with gusts between 15 and 25 mph. Dry vegetation completes the recipe for fast-spreading fires.
Charlotte, Greenville-Spartanburg, and surrounding counties sit squarely in the risk zone. Even routine outdoor activities could spark trouble. Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning and follow local fire restrictions closely. Fires can escape control quickly under these conditions.
Temperatures rise into the lower 50s this afternoon, adding to drying. Winds remain active through daylight hours, then ease this evening as humidity slowly recovers. For now, fire danger stays elevated until sunset.
New Year’s Day brings calmer weather. Sunshine dominates, highs reach the mid-50s, and winds stay light. While fuels remain dry, the immediate fire threat lowers compared to today.
Attention then turns to Friday and the first weekend of 2026. Clouds increase Friday, followed by a 40–60% chance of rain Friday night into Saturday. That rainfall should help reduce fire danger but may introduce slick roads for holiday travelers. Plan extra time if driving Saturday morning.
Sunday trends drier and mild, with sunshine returning and highs near 55.
Today is the critical window. Secure trailer chains, postpone burning, and report smoke early. Winter may feel quiet, but fire risk can rise fast. Are conditions unusually dry where you live?
Five-Day Outlook: Charlotte NC / Upstate SC
- Today: Sunny, windy, very dry. High near 51°F. Elevated fire danger.
- New Year’s Day: Sunny and calm. High near 56°F.
- Friday: Mostly cloudy. High near 54°F.
- Saturday: Rain likely at times. High near 53°F.
- Sunday: Sunny and mild. High near 55°F.
