North Carolina Forest Service Warns of High Wildfire Risk as Dry, Windy Fall Continues

ONSLOW COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA — The North Carolina Forest Service is warning residents to take extra precautions this fall as ongoing dry conditions, low humidity, and strong winds have created an elevated risk for wildfires across much of the state.

Officials say that even a small spark could lead to fast-moving and dangerous fires, especially as leaves dry out and seasonal winds pick up.

Dry Conditions and Strong Winds Create Ideal Fire Conditions

Philip Jackson, spokesperson for the North Carolina Forest Service, explained that this fall’s higher fire risk is due to a combination of dry weather, reduced humidity, and persistent gusts.

“The wind has a potential to get a hold of an ignition source and really cause a problem in terms of wildfire with how quickly it could spread and how problematic it could become,” Jackson said.

The Forest Service reports that 99% of wildfires in the state are human-caused, often resulting from unattended debris burns, campfires, or discarded cigarettes.

Fall Fire Season Adds Pressure to Understaffed Departments

Officials noted that the state already experienced an active spring fire season and that resources remain stretched thin as fall begins.

“We have not seen improvement in that to this point,” Jackson said. “We’re pretty much where we’ve been over the last few years — right around 100 vacancies, maybe more, maybe just a little less. Given those staffing levels, it’s always a challenge when you’re missing people.”

Despite the staffing shortages, crews are preparing for potential wildfires and are urging residents to help prevent new ones by acting responsibly.

How Residents Can Reduce Fire Risk

The Forest Service emphasized that no burn bans are currently in effect, but they strongly discourage debris burning and unnecessary outdoor fires until wetter weather returns.

Jackson outlined several key safety steps for residents and campers:

• Build campfires only in cleared, designated areas away from flammable vegetation.
• Never leave a fire unattended under any circumstances.
• Fully extinguish fires before leaving — “cold to the touch” is the standard.
• Avoid burning yard debris, even in areas without local restrictions.

“Folks need to build those campfires in proper areas where it’s away from flammable vegetation,” Jackson said. “Never leave it unattended, and when we say completely out, we mean that it’s cold to the touch. If it’s too hot to touch, then it’s too hot to leave.”

Residents Urged to Stay Alert Through Late Fall

The Forest Service expects elevated fire danger to persist in the coming weeks as long as dry and windy conditions continue. Officials say they will issue localized burn bans if necessary and encourage residents to monitor local weather and fire advisories.

Residents can track the latest wildfire alerts and safety updates through the North Carolina Forest Service website and their county emergency management pages.

Have you witnessed wildfire risks or fire safety issues in your area this season? Share your experiences with the Saluda community at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.