Expect fire danger in Eastern North Carolina until early Thursday morning

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A weather alert was issued by the NWS Newport/Morehead City NC on Wednesday at 2:11 p.m. for fire danger until Thursday at 5 a.m. The alert is for Mainland Dare, Mainland Hyde, Northern Craven, Southern Craven, Northern Outer Banks, Ocracoke Island and Hatteras Island as well as Martin, Pitt, Washington, Tyrrell, Greene, Beaufort, Duplin, Lenoir, Jones and Pamlico counties.

"The combination of gusty southwest winds and extremely dry fuels will lead to an increased fire danger Thursday across much of eastern North Carolina. Dry grasses, dead leaves, and other tree litter could easily ignite and spread fire quickly. People in this area are urged to properly dispose of cigarette butts, matches, and any other flammable items in appropriate containers. Exercise caution if operating any equipment that could create sparks, and keep vehicles off of dry leaves and grass," according to the NWS.

This alert is in effect until Thursday at 5 a.m.

Source: The National Weather Service

United Robots North Carolina

This story was originally published June 17, 2026 at 2:15 PM.