WILMINGTON, N.C. – Sunshine and mild fall temperatures will come with a heightened fire danger across southeast North Carolina and northeast South Carolina today as dry air and gusty winds follow a passing cold front. The National Weather Service in Wilmington has issued a Fire Danger Statement for the region, warning that outdoor fires could spread rapidly under these conditions.
According to the NWS Wilmington office, afternoon humidity levels will drop to critical values inland while westerly winds reach 10–15 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph possible. The combination of warm temperatures—ranging from 73°F to 76°F—and dry vegetation will keep the fire risk elevated through the afternoon.
Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning, especially in rural and wooded areas. Cigarettes and matches should be fully extinguished, and those using outdoor fire pits or grills should keep water or sand nearby. Drivers should avoid parking on dry grass, as hot exhaust systems can spark fires.
Conditions will remain breezy and dry again Thursday before humidity begins to recover heading into the weekend. Cooler nights and lighter winds are expected by Friday, bringing more typical late-October weather to the Carolina coast.
