Asheville, NC – A Red Flag Warning has been issued across Western North Carolina, parts of Upstate South Carolina, and Rabun County in Northeast Georgia for Friday due to an increased risk of wildfire spread.
According to the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg, the warning is in effect from noon to 8 p.m. EDT Friday, citing gusty winds, low humidity, and critically dry fuels. Southwest winds are forecast between 5 to 15 mph, with gusts peaking near 30 mph, especially along ridge tops. Relative humidity values may dip as low as 20%, and fine fuel moisture levels are expected to fall below 10% during the afternoon.
The warning includes counties such as Buncombe, Haywood, Macon, Transylvania, Henderson, and Madison in North Carolina; Oconee, Pickens, and Greenville in South Carolina; and Rabun County in Georgia.
Officials warn that any outdoor flames could ignite rapidly and spread uncontrollably under these conditions. Residents are strongly urged to avoid outdoor burning, secure loose debris, and monitor local alerts.
These fire-prone conditions are not unusual in early spring, when dry fuels from winter linger and winds increase. Residents should remain vigilant and report any signs of wildfire activity to emergency services immediately.
