ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — A warming trend is expected to continue across Western North Carolina this week, with increasing chances for showers and thunderstorms, according to the National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg.
Forecasters say temperatures will climb into the upper 70s and low 80s Tuesday, remaining above normal for late March. A slight chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms is possible, mainly after 2 p.m., with otherwise mostly sunny skies.
Conditions are expected to become more unsettled beginning Wednesday, when rain and thunderstorms are likely, especially later in the day. Daily chances for precipitation are forecast to continue through the weekend.
Despite the possibility of rain, drought conditions across the region continue to worsen. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, moderate to severe drought is widespread, with some areas now experiencing extreme drought.
The dry conditions have contributed to an elevated wildfire risk. The North Carolina Forest Service said a statewide ban on open burning remains in effect for all 100 counties as of March 28.
Meanwhile, firefighters continue to battle several wildfires across the region.
The largest, the Jumping Branch Fire in the Pisgah National Forest, has burned 185 acres and is 20 percent contained, according to the U.S. Forest Service. The fire is burning about 8 miles northwest of Marion in steep terrain complicated by downed trees from Tropical Storm Helene.
More than 150 personnel are assigned to the fire, working to establish and strengthen containment lines. Aircraft continue to assist with water and fire retardant drops. Smoke may be visible in nearby communities, including Marion and surrounding areas.
Officials have urged drivers to avoid N.C. 80 near Buck Creek due to reduced visibility and firefighting activity. A temporary flight restriction is also in place over the fire area, and the public is reminded not to fly drones nearby.
Other fires in the region are nearing containment. The Poplar Fire in Pisgah National Forest is 90 percent contained at 370 acres, while the Tarkiln Ridge Fire in the Nantahala National Forest is also 90 percent contained. The Nix Creek Road Fire and Black Balsam Fire have both reached 100 percent containment and are in patrol status.
Fire officials say dry vegetation and ongoing drought conditions could still contribute to fire activity, even as weather conditions gradually moderate later this week.