The National Weather Service in Wilmington has issued a Fire Weather Watch for wind and low relative humidity, which is in effect from Friday afternoon through Friday evening.
The watch is in effect for Columbus, Robeson, Bladen, Pender, New Hanover, and Brunswick counties.
Low relative humidity and high winds have made conditions conducive to rapid wildfire growth. Outdoor burning is not recommended, according to the N.C. Forest Service.
Critical fire conditions are expected to continue through Friday evening.