One spark during a routine day doing farm work could cause a fire, and in the ongoing drought conditions, things could escalate quickly.
WRAL's Breaking News Tracker was on the scene of two separate fires this month, where large fires broke out in fields.
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The first time was in Cumberland County when a farmer’s hay baler sparked, igniting dry grass and setting part of the field on fire.
Just two weeks later, a nearly identical situation unfolded in Broadway. Another piece of farm equipment, another spark. This time, burning close to seven acres of farmland.
Experts say the common thread in both fires is the heightened risk tied to dry, drought-like conditions.
"Normally, that is not an issue because we have enough moisture around that things are not as a tender box, like things are right now," said Charlie Cahoon, Professor at NC State's Department of Crop and Soil Sciences. "There is a heightened risk for any type of equipment right now when things are really dry."
According to Cahoon, a lack of moisture is allowing fires to spread rapidly.
"Anytime that you're running heavy equipment. There is a risk for fire right," Cahoon said.
With large equipment generating heat and friction, even a small spark can quickly ignite dry vegetation, leaving little time for farmers to react. It's important for farmers to properly clean and maintain equipment to minimize the risk of equipment starting a fire.
Though some much-needed rain returns to the forecast this week, meteorologist Chris Michaels said it would take 10 to 11 inches of rain to completely get rid of the drought.
In the meantime, Cahoon urges farmers and landowners to stay alert and prepared to prevent more incidents.
"Be diligent. Talk to your local county extension agents for some considerations on how to manage the drought situation," Cahoon said.
Cahoon encourages any farmer or landowner with questions or concerns about the drought's impact on land or crops to contact a local county extension agent.