Dry winds and low humidity are fueling a dangerous situation across the coast and coastal plains today. A statewide burn ban is now in effect as crews scramble to contain several growing brush fires.
Crews in Hyde County have successfully reined in a fast-moving wildfire that sparked Monday afternoon. The North Carolina Forest Service reports that the Leechville Marsh Fire is now 100% contained after scorching 70 acres near the communities of Scranton and Ponzer. The flames stayed active overnight along Highways 264 and 45, drawing a massive response from local officials. The Forest Service hasn’t yet determined what sparked the blaze.
In Onslow County, the Sweet Briar fire is contained.
The National Weather Service has issued a high-risk alert for Pitt, Greene, Duplin, Bertie, and Lenoir counties. With humidity levels dropping and vegetation bone-dry, the N.C. Forest Service says even a single spark could trigger a catastrophe.
People are urged to obey the burn ban—no campfires, no burning trash, and no exceptions. If you see smoke or flames, call 9-1-1 immediately.
