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Outdoor burning remains discouraged as Forestry Commission lifts Red Flag Fire Alert for 25 counties

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While the eastern half of the state is no longer under the alert, forestry officials caution that western conditions remain volatile.

The South Carolina Forestry Commission (SCFC) has lifted the Red Flag Fire Alert for 25 counties, following the statewide alert that was issued Wednesday.

The alert remains in effect for Richland County and westward until further notice. Forestry officials cite continued dry, windy conditions as favorable for wildfire spread. Barnwell is the southern-most county to remain under the alert.

Red Flag Fire Alert map for April 9, 2026
SCFC
Red Flag Fire Alert map for April 9, 2026

While the alert is no longer active for the eastern half of the state, the SCFC cautions now is still not an ideal time to burn. Should residents choose to burn, forestry officials say vigilance is key. State law requires anyone planning to burn outdoors outside of city limits to notify the Forestry Commission in advance and take the proper precautions.

More information can be found on the SCFC website.

Kristina Thacker joined the South Carolina Public Radio team in September of 2025. She is a multimedia journalist with experience in both on-air reporting and production.