Special Weather Statement issued March 27 at 3:29AM EDT by NWS Newport/Morehead City NC

The combination of dry fuels, minRHs in the low 20%s, and gusty
winds associated with local sea, sound, and river breezes will
result in increased fire danger threat for all of eastern North
Carolina today as fires could rapidly grow out of control and
spread quickly. Greatest threat will be in the late afternoon and
early evening as winds will be relatively light with variable
direction as high pressure shifts offshore.

The North Carolina Forest Service has issued a statewide ban on
all open burning and has cancelled all burning permits until
further notice. The NC Forest Service will continue to monitor
conditions. Residents with questions can contact their NC Forest
Service county ranger or their county fire marshal’s office.