South Carolina Forestry Commission Urges Caution as Wildfire Risk Rises Across State
March 23, 2026
As spring weather brings warmer temperatures and clear skies to South Carolina, the South Carolina Forestry Commission is warning residents that current conditions are creating an increased risk for wildfires across the state.
According to the agency, a combination of dry air, strong winds, and low relative humidity contributed to a busy weekend for wildfire response teams. Those same conditions are expected to persist—and potentially worsen—over the next 7 to 10 days.
Forestry officials say South Carolina is entering a drying pattern that is likely to intensify what is already considered an emerging drought across much of the state. As moisture levels drop, so does the ability of natural materials to resist ignition. Particularly concerning are “thousand-hour fuels”—larger dead organic materials such as logs, branches, and deep forest floor debris—which can become increasingly flammable as they dry out.
Even the chance of scattered thunderstorms offers little relief. Officials caution that fast-moving systems can bring unpredictable and potentially stronger-than-expected wind gusts, which can rapidly spread fires once they begin.
The current conditions closely resemble those that led to the Table Rock Fire and contributed to one of the most active wildfire seasons the state has seen in decades.
With the elevated risk, the Forestry Commission is encouraging residents to exercise caution with any outdoor burning and to remain aware of changing conditions.
The agency’s message is simple but urgent: Think Before You Burn.
