Residents across Moore County are being urged to use extreme caution Monday as the National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for central North Carolina, including the Sandhills.

The warning is in effect Monday, Dec. 29, from noon to 6 p.m., and signals a heightened risk for wildfires due to a combination of dry conditions, low humidity and gusty winds.

According to the National Weather Service, conditions across Moore County are expected to be especially favorable for fires to start and spread quickly. Dry vegetation combined with relative humidity dropping into the 20 percent range and winds gusting between 15 and 25 mph could allow even a small spark to turn into a fast moving wildfire.

A Red Flag Warning is issued when critical fire weather conditions are either occurring or expected to occur soon. It does not mean a fire is happening, but it does mean that if one starts, it could become difficult to control.

There is a chance of rain Monday afternoon that could help improve conditions, but fire officials stress that outdoor burning should not resume until the Red Flag Warning has officially been lifted. Gusty winds and dry fuels could still allow fires to spread quickly even if brief showers develop.

Forestry officials and fire departments urge residents to avoid all outdoor burning during the warning period. This includes burning leaves, trash or debris, as well as using fire pits or any activity that could produce sparks. Motorists are also reminded to avoid parking vehicles on dry grass and to properly dispose of smoking materials.

Moore County has seen extended dry weather in recent weeks, leaving grasses, pine needles and wooded areas especially vulnerable. Fire officials say these are the kinds of conditions that often lead to brush fires spreading rapidly across the Sandhills region.

The Red Flag Warning is expected to expire at 6 p.m. Monday, though officials say fire danger may remain elevated until more widespread rainfall arrives.