Weather service places Red Flag warning on Lenoir County

Lenoir County is among several counties in the eastern part of North Carolina to be placed under a Red Flag warning by the National Weather Service at Morehead City.

The warning is in effect until 6 p.m., but could be extended.

A Red Flag warning is issued when the danger of fire is critical. Low relative humidity will create explosive fire growth potential, the service said.

An extremely dry air mass has moved into the area behind a cold front that passed through Tuesday. Humidity readings this afternoon will be at or below 25 percent. Dry air, along with west to northwest winds of 15 to 20 mph and gusts around 30 mph, will result in dangerous fire conditions, according to predictions.

Grass and brush will dry significantly, the service said. Grass and brush fires are a likely threat throughout the afternoon. Outdoor burning today, and through the weekend, can be dangerous.

Monday is the first day this area may see rain showers. The possibility for showers continues through Wednesday, according to the weather service.

Martin, Pitt, Washington, Tyrrell, Greene, Beaufort, Duplin, Jones, Craven, Pamlico, Carteret and Onslow counties are included in the Red Flag warning.