If you live in North Carolina, South Carolina, or North Georgia, it’s time to be extra cautious—fire danger is at an all-time high, and conditions aren’t getting any better.
A Fire Weather Watch is in effect until Friday evening, meaning that everything outside is bone-dry, the wind is kicking up, and even the smallest spark could start a wildfire that spreads dangerously fast.
This is serious. Fire officials are on high alert, and they need your help to prevent unnecessary fires.
Why Is the Fire Risk So Extreme Right Now?
The Air Is Dry as a Desert (Humidity 15-25%) – With so little moisture in the air, trees, grass, and brush are like kindling, ready to ignite at the slightest spark.
Strong Winds (Gusts 20-30 MPH) – If a fire starts, the wind will push it quickly across fields, roads, and even homes. Firefighters could have little time to stop it before it spreads.
We Need Rain—And We’re Not Getting It – With little to no recent rain, the ground and vegetation are crispy and dangerously flammable.
Warm Temperatures Aren’t Helping – Highs in the upper 70s to low 80s only make things drier and increase the fire risk.
Who’s Most at Risk?
The highest fire danger areas include:
Western & Central North Carolina – Charlotte, Asheville, Greensboro
Upstate South Carolina – Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson
North Georgia – Atlanta, Athens, Gainesville
If you live in these areas, take this seriously. A wildfire can start in seconds and spread even faster.
How You Can Help Prevent Wildfires
NO Outdoor Burning! – That means NO bonfires, NO fire pits, NO burning yard debris. Even a tiny ember can travel in the wind and start a fire miles away.
Watch Where You Park & Drive – Hot car engines and exhaust pipes can ignite dry grass. Park on pavement, not in fields. If you’re towing something, make sure your safety chains aren’t dragging—sparks from metal scraping the road can easily start fires.
Be Smart with Cigarettes – DO NOT flick cigarette butts out of the car or onto the ground. That tiny ember could turn into a wildfire that threatens homes and lives.
Use Outdoor Equipment Carefully – If you’re using lawnmowers, chainsaws, or welding tools, keep them far away from dry brush and have water nearby—just in case.
How Long Will the Fire Risk Last?
The Fire Weather Watch is in effect until Friday evening, but if dry weather continues, fire danger could stretch into the weekend.
If you see smoke or fire, don’t assume someone else has called it in—CALL 911 immediately. Wildfires move shockingly fast, and early action could save lives and property.
