ROWAN COUNTY — Residents and commuters in Rowan County should be advised of the potential for strong winds throughout the day on Thursday.

The National Weather Service issued a Special Weather Statement around 6 a.m. that is expected to last at least until 6 p.m.

“Sustained winds of 10 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph are expected across North Carolina Piedmont today,” the statement said. “Meanwhile, relative humidity of 25 to 30 percent is expected across the area this afternoon. These conditions, combined with dry vegetation will enhance the potential for the start and spread of wildfires across the area.”

The statement added that if one does burn, they should “use extreme caution since fires can quickly get out of hand under these conditions.”