A Red Flag Fire Alert is back in effect for South Carolina, the state Forestry Commission (SCFC) announced Tuesday. The alert will remain in effect until further notice.
Forestry officials say the lack of rain in South Carolina is worsening the state's current drought. That dry air, combined with gusty winds and low relative humidity, has prompted the statewide precautionary measure.
Although a Red Flag Fire Alert does not ban burning, it can bring about certain county or local burn ban ordinances. Residents should contact their local fire departments to check whether such restrictions apply in their areas.
“Wildfire potential is always higher this time of year, and our use of the Red Flag Fire Alert a few weeks ago made a huge difference in the number of new ignitions,” said SCFC Fire Chief Darryl Jones. “This warning is a great tool that encourages citizens to voluntarily postpone any such burning until the alert is lifted. We’re simply asking for people to respect the weather, be smart and stay safe.”
According to the U.S. drought monitor, most of South Carolina is experiencing moderate to severe drought conditions. The Upstate, including Spartanburg, Greenville, Abbeville, Union and Laurens counties, face the worst of the drought. That area is under "extreme drought", the 4th highest category in the monitor's 5-level scale.
Anyone considering outdoor burning should take extra precautions if they still choose to burn while the alert is in effect. Additional information on outdoor burning and important resources can be found on the SCFC website.
