Knoxville, TN – A widespread stretch of the Tennessee–North Carolina–Virginia region is under an elevated fire danger alert this afternoon and early evening as dry air and strengthening winds create conditions that can cause fires to spread rapidly, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) Morristown.
A combination of low humidity, warm temperatures, and south to southwest winds reaching 5–15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph will increase fire risk across mountain ridges, foothills, and valley communities. These conditions typically peak during the warmest hours of the day when vegetation dries out and winds become more unpredictable.
Elevated Fire Weather Conditions Explained
Forecasters report that relative humidity dipping into the upper 20s to mid-30s is a key driver of this enhanced fire risk. When humidity drops this low, even a small spark can ignite dry grasses, leaves, or brush. Coupled with gusty winds, any fire that begins may expand quickly and become difficult for crews to control.
According to the latest guidance from NWS Morristown, this setup is expected to strengthen through the afternoon before easing after sunset.
Areas Facing the Highest Risk Today
The region covered by the elevated fire danger is extensive, reaching from the Cumberland Plateau through the Tennessee Valley, across the Smoky Mountains, and into western North Carolina and southwest Virginia.
Some of the communities included in the elevated risk area are:
- Knoxville, Chattanooga, Cleveland, Athens, Morristown, Sevierville, Elizabethton, and Johnson City
- Kingsport, Bristol (TN/VA), Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Cades Cove
- Mountain areas including Unicoi and Roan Mountain
These locations have the combination of dry fuels, afternoon breezes, and lower humidity that can promote fast-moving fire spread.
NWS Issues Safety Precautions for Residents
NWS officials continue to urge residents to avoid activities that could produce sparks or flames during the most hazardous period — from early afternoon through sunset.
They also emphasise being mindful of how even routine tasks can accidentally start a fire.
Common ignition sources include:
- Equipment such as lawnmowers, trimmers, or chainsaws
- Power tools that can generate sparks
- Hot vehicle exhaust near dry grass
- Trailer safety chains dragging on pavement
- Discarded cigarettes or still-warm ash
- Outdoor grilling or fire pits left unattended
Outdoor Burning Strongly Discouraged
While local burn regulations differ by county, forecasters recommend that anyone considering open burning today should reconsider or postpone.
Many local fire departments in the region also encourage residents to check for burn restrictions before lighting any fire — especially during dry, windy periods.
“Even a small fire could become difficult to control very quickly under these conditions,” NWS Morristown advised in its afternoon outlook.
Winds are expected to weaken and humidity will recover after sunset, gradually lowering the fire threat overnight.
Conditions to Improve Later Tonight
As the sun sets and temperatures cool, winds typically reduce and relative humidity increases, helping to ease the fire danger. However, forecasters emphasise that dry vegetation across portions of Tennessee, North Carolina, and Virginia may continue to pose a heightened fire risk into midweek depending on rainfall patterns.
Residents across the region should remain aware of changing weather alerts from NWS Morristown, local emergency services, and county burn authorities.
Share your experiences in the comments below.
