Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged across North Carolina again Thursday. Wind gusts up to 35mph combined with low humidity creates an increased fire danger. If any fire were to break out in these conditions, it could spread rapidly.

The breezy conditions come as a front passes through North Carolina. No rain is expected with the front. Instead, it will just reinforce dry air around the region.

Temperatures will still warm at least to the 70s in the eastern half of the state by early Thursday afternoon. Some parts of southeastern North Carolina including locations near Wilmington will be as warm as the low 80s.

Colder air will arrive behind the front Thursday evening. Lows in the 30s to near 40 are forecast across North Carolina. A patchy light frost is possible in the Piedmont early Friday morning.  Near the North Carolina mountains freezing temperatures will be possible.