North Carolina lifts ban on open burning

RALEIGH (AP) — The state is lifting its month-long ban on open burning because of last week's storm that dropped several inches of rain across North Carolina.

Officials with the Division of Forest Resources say the ban will end at noon because rain and lower temperatures have reduced the danger that fires could get out of control.

They say the rain didn't do much toward alleviating drought across the state. They also warn the ban could be reinstated if dry weather continues and wildfires increase.

Burn permits are available through the state office, a county-approved burning permit agent, or online at www.dfr.state.nc.us.