Clayton, N.C. — Johnston County emergency officials are warning the public about a fire that could cause problems for the next couple of days.

The fire broke out at the stump dump in the Loop Road vicinity. Officials with the state Department of Environment and Natural Resources required Stump Dump Inc. to cover its yard waste with dirt, which is standard practice as ordered by state environment officials. However, something caused the fire to combust spontaneously.

According to officials, the fire started under the dirt before spreading and erupting into a huge cloud of smoke. The fire is expected to burn for several days, causing heavy smoke in the early morning and late afternoon hours.

Motorists are urged to be cautious on the roads since heavy smoke is a concern for that area. The state Division of Air Quality is investigating the incident.

People with respiratory problems are asked to limit their outside activities.