RALEIGH — With spring wildfire season arriving as much of North Carolina remains in moderate to severe drought, state officials are urging residents to use caution with outdoor burning and to take steps to prevent fires before they start.
Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said recent rain and winter storms may give the impression that conditions have improved, but most of the state is still unusually dry. That dryness, he said, makes it easier for fires to ignite, spread quickly and burn more intensely.
“Our state’s gradual descent into drought and prolonged dry conditions means wildfires can ignite more easily, burn more intensely and spread quicker,” Troxler said. “The best defense against wildfires will always be to prevent them from starting.”
According to the N.C. Forest Service, escaped yard debris burns remain the leading cause of wildfires, accounting for nearly half of all fire starts statewide. Human activity is responsible for 99% of North Carolina wildfires, and spring weather typically brings an increase in outdoor yard work and debris burning.
Troxler warned that fires can escape “in a matter of seconds,” especially on warm, windy days, and reminded residents never to leave a fire unattended until it is completely extinguished and cold to the touch.
Other common causes of human‑started wildfires include equipment use, dragging tow chains, campfires and arson.
Western N.C. at Higher Risk
The Forest Service noted that counties in western North Carolina remain especially vulnerable following Hurricane Helene, which left behind widespread tree damage and heavy debris. Dead and dying timber in those areas has created unusually high fuel loads that could intensify wildfire behavior.
State Officials Offer Safety Guidance
Before burning outdoors, residents are encouraged to contact their local Forest Service ranger and review local burning laws. Some communities restrict burning to certain hours, while others prohibit it entirely.
The Forest Service recommends the following precautions:
- Check local regulations before burning.
- Obtain a valid burn permit, available at Forest Service offices or online.
- Avoid burning on dry or windy days.
- Clear the area around your burn site and keep debris contained.
- Have water, tools and a phone nearby.
- Never use gasoline, kerosene or other accelerants.
- Stay with your fire until it is fully out and cold.
The same guidance applies to campfires and grills. Officials advise thoroughly soaking coals and embers with water, stirring them, and soaking them again until they are cold to the touch.
Drones Pose a Risk to Firefighting Aircraft
The public is also reminded not to fly drones near wildfires. Firefighting aircraft often operate at low altitudes, and unauthorized drones can force air crews to halt operations, putting firefighters and nearby communities at greater risk.
Staying Smoke‑Ready
With wildfire risk elevated, residents—especially children, older adults and people with heart or lung conditions—are encouraged to monitor air quality and prepare for potential smoke impacts. Air quality information is available at ncair.org, airnow.gov, and the N.C. State Climate Office.
More information on wildfire prevention and preparedness can be found at preventwildfirenc.org.
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