WNC Under Increased Fire Danger: What You Need to Know

WNC -- Dry Conditions, Gusty Winds, and Low Humidity Raise Fire Risk Western North Carolina is experiencing a heightened fire danger as

 of February 28, 2025, due to a combination of dry conditions, low humidity, and strong winds. Local and state authorities are urging residents to take extra precautions as the risk of wildfires continues to rise.

The North Carolina State University Fire Weather Intelligence Portal has issued a "Very High" to "Extreme" fire danger rating for parts of the region. The National Weather Service has also released Special Weather Statements for multiple counties, warning that any fire that ignites could spread rapidly.

What’s Causing the Increased Fire Danger?
Several factors are contributing to the increased risk:

Dry Vegetation: Dead leaves, grass, and underbrush are highly combustible due to a lack of significant rainfall in recent weeks.
Low Humidity: Relative humidity levels have dropped to 25% or lower, further drying out fuels and making them easier to ignite.
Gusty Winds: Southwest winds reaching speeds of 15 to 30 mph are expected across higher elevations. Strong gusts can cause fires to spread quickly and unpredictably.
Counties Most Affected
Several counties in Western North Carolina are under increased fire risk advisories, with local governments urging caution. Some areas have issued warnings or recommended burn bans:

Avery County: The National Weather Service has issued an Increased Fire Danger warning.
Buncombe County: The Fire Marshal’s Office is strongly advising against any outdoor burning activities.
Cherokee, Clay, and Macon Counties: Air quality alerts have been issued due to smoke from nearby wildfires.
Henderson and Graham Counties: Forecasts predict Code Orange air quality conditions, which could pose health risks to sensitive groups.
For a county-by-county breakdown of fire warnings and advisories, residents are encouraged to visit local emergency management websites and the North Carolina Forest Service’s fire information page.

Burning Restrictions and Recommendations
While some counties have not yet implemented formal burn bans, fire officials strongly advise against any type of outdoor burning at this time. Even small fires, such as those for debris burning or campfires, could easily escape containment under current conditions.

Authorities recommend: ✔️ Delaying outdoor burning until conditions improve.
✔️ Ensuring campfires are completely extinguished before leaving them unattended.
✔️ Avoiding activities that may produce sparks, such as using chainsaws or dragging tow chains on roads.
✔️ Monitoring weather updates and emergency alerts for fire conditions.

If you see an unattended fire or signs of smoke, immediately report it to local emergency services.

Current Weather Conditions for Western NC
Western North Carolina is experiencing warm temperatures and sunny conditions, further increasing fire risk. Below is a snapshot of current weather conditions in key locations:

Asheville, NC:

Friday, Feb. 28: High of 62°F (17°C), sunny with low humidity.
Saturday, March 1: High of 63°F (17°C), mostly sunny, low humidity.
Sunday, March 2: Cooler, high of 46°F (8°C).
Boone, NC:

Friday, Feb. 28: High of 53°F (12°C), breezy with gusts up to 30 mph.
Saturday, March 1: High of 50°F (10°C), windy and dry.
Sunday, March 2: Temperatures drop to 37°F (3°C).
Sylva, NC:

Friday, Feb. 28: High of 61°F (16°C), sunshine and dry air.
Saturday, March 1: High of 61°F (16°C), clear skies.
Sunday, March 2: Cooler with a high of 51°F (10°C).
These warm, dry conditions increase fire danger significantly, making it critical for residents to remain vigilant.

Emergency Preparedness: How You Can Help Prevent Wildfires
Wildfires can cause devastating damage to homes, wildlife, and communities. Here are some essential tips to help prevent fires:

Avoid any outdoor burning until fire danger levels decrease.
Properly dispose of cigarettes and matches—never toss them on dry grass or from a moving vehicle.
Create a defensible space around your home by clearing dead leaves, dry brush, and other flammable materials.
Follow local burn bans and advisories from your county emergency management office.
Stay informed by checking local news, emergency alerts, and fire danger maps.
Final Thoughts
As Western North Carolina enters a period of very high fire danger, residents must remain cautious and proactive to prevent wildfires. Small sparks can lead to major fires, so avoiding unnecessary outdoor burning is crucial.

If you live in an area at risk, stay updated on local fire danger levels, follow official advisories, and take all necessary precautions to protect yourself and your community.