Eastern North Carolina Faces Elevated Fire Danger Sunday
Multiple weather offices warn of dangerous fire conditions Sunday as drought, high temps, and gusty winds create perfect storm for rapid fire spread.
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA — Multiple National Weather Service offices have issued special weather statements warning of increased fire danger across eastern North Carolina on Sunday, as abnormally dry conditions combine with high temperatures, low humidity, and gusty winds.
The NWS Raleigh office reported that the combination of low relative humidity around 25 to 30 percent, breezy winds up to 10 to 20 mph, and extremely dry fuels will create hazardous fire conditions throughout portions of eastern North Carolina on Sunday.
Temperatures are forecast to reach well into the 90s inland, with the NWS Wakefield office predicting afternoon highs in the low to mid 90s ahead of an approaching cold front. Wind gusts could reach 15 to 20 mph during afternoon hours, further exacerbating the dangerous conditions.
Drought Conditions Fuel Fire Risk
The ongoing drought has created abnormally dry dead surface fuels across the region, according to weather officials. Dry grasses, dead leaves, and other tree litter could easily ignite and spread fire quickly in these conditions.
The NWS Newport/Morehead City office noted that fire fuels could easily ignite and spread rapidly, with the lowest relative humidity values expected away from the immediate coast. The elevated fire danger is forecast to persist from mid-morning through early evening Sunday.
Safety Precautions Urged
Weather officials are urging residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution with any potential ignition sources. The public is advised to properly dispose of cigarette butts, matches, and any other flammable items in appropriate containers.
Authorities recommend exercising caution when operating any equipment that could create sparks and keeping vehicles off dry leaves and grass. Residents are advised to refer to their local burn permitting authorities before conducting any outdoor burning activities.
“Any dry grasses and tree litter that ignite will have the potential to spread quickly,” according to the NWS Wakefield office warning.
The weather statements emphasize that people should be sure to properly discard all smoking materials and handle machinery with extra care during the elevated fire danger period.
