North Carolina, it’s time to be extra careful—fire danger is through the roof today. A Fire Weather Alert is in effect until 8 PM Friday, and with strong winds, dry air, and zero recent rain, conditions are perfect for wildfires to start and spread dangerously fast.
All it takes is one spark—a flicked cigarette, a car parked on dry grass, or a gust of wind hitting a smoldering ember—and it could turn into a wildfire that spreads faster than you can react.
Why Today’s Fire Risk Is So Extreme
Winds Cranking Up (Gusts Over 30 MPH) – If a fire starts, the wind will carry flames across fields, forests, and even homes in minutes.
Bone-Dry Air (Humidity 15-25%) – With so little moisture, grass, leaves, and trees are like tinder—one spark and they’re up in flames.
No Rain + Warm Temperatures = A Disaster Waiting to Happen – Everything outside is crispy and ready to burn, and with highs in the upper 70s, the warmth only makes it worse.
Who’s Most at Risk?
The areas on high alert include:
Central & Eastern North Carolina – Raleigh, Durham, Fayetteville
Western North Carolina – Asheville, Boone, Hickory
If you live in these areas, take this warning seriously. Wildfires can start in seconds and spread even faster.
How to Prevent Fires Today
No Outdoor Burning! – That means NO bonfires, NO fire pits, NO burning leaves. Even a small ember can travel and ignite dry grass miles away.
Watch Where You Park & Drive – Hot car engines and exhaust pipes can ignite dry grass. Stick to paved roads and parking areas. If you’re towing a trailer, double-check that safety chains aren’t dragging—sparks from metal on pavement can start fires.
Cigarettes Are a Huge Risk – DO NOT toss your cigarette butt outside. That tiny ember could cost thousands of acres and put lives at risk.
Be Smart with Outdoor Equipment – If you’re using lawnmowers, chainsaws, or welding tools, make sure you’re far from dry brush and have water nearby—just in case.
How Long Will the Fire Risk Last?
The Fire Weather Alert lasts until 8 PM Friday, but if the dry and windy weather sticks around, fire danger could extend into the weekend.
See smoke or fire? Don’t wait—CALL 911 immediately. Wildfires move at terrifying speeds, and a fast response can save homes, forests, and lives.
