Weather Alert: Fire Danger in Eastern North Carolina Until Early Wednesday Morning
EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA — The National Weather Service (NWS) in Wakefield, Virginia, has issued a fire danger alert for several counties across Eastern North Carolina, warning residents of increased wildfire risk through early Wednesday morning.
According to the NWS update released at 10:02 p.m. on Tuesday, the alert is in effect until 4 a.m. Wednesday and covers Western Currituck, Northampton, Hertford, Gates, Pasquotank, Camden, Bertie, Chowan, and Perquimans counties.
Wind and Dry Conditions Creating Fire Hazards
Meteorologists say the combination of westerly winds around 15 mph, gusting up to 25 mph, and relative humidity levels between 25% and 30% is contributing to heightened fire danger across the region.
“The combination of gusty winds, dry air, and fuel conditions will lead to increased fire danger across most of northeast North Carolina on Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.,” the NWS said.
Officials strongly discouraged outdoor burning, warning that even small sparks could lead to fast-spreading wildfires in the current dry environment.
Residents Urged to Take Precautions
Emergency management officials are advising residents to avoid outdoor fires, including burning debris, yard waste, or using open flames near wooded areas. Residents should also properly dispose of cigarettes and refrain from parking vehicles on dry grass, as heat from exhaust systems can ignite brush.
“The dry conditions and steady winds make it easy for fires to spread quickly and become difficult to control,” the NWS warned.
Local fire departments remain on standby as weather conditions continue to create an elevated risk of brush and grass fires through midweek.
Counties Affected by the Alert
The following northeastern North Carolina counties are currently under the elevated fire danger alert:
- Western Currituck
- Northampton
- Hertford
- Gates
- Pasquotank
- Camden
- Bertie
- Chowan
- Perquimans
Residents in these areas are encouraged to monitor local weather updates and follow any advisories from county emergency management offices.
Outlook Through Midweek
Forecasters expect conditions to improve gradually after Wednesday morning as humidity levels rise slightly. However, dry fuels and breezy winds could continue to pose spot fire risks until the next round of rainfall arrives later in the week.
Officials continue to remind the public that outdoor burning bans may be implemented locally if conditions worsen.
For the latest weather updates and safety information across the Carolinas, stay with SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
