South Carolina Lifts Burn Ban As Drought Persists
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Columbia, S.C. — The South Carolina Forestry Commission lifted the statewide burn ban Monday morning after extremely low humidities and gusty winds that prompted the March 27 ban subsided; officials announced the ban ended at 7 a.m. and urged continued vigilance as elevated drought persists across much of the state.
Officials said above-average fire danger is expected through April, citing U.S. Drought Monitor data showing nearly 86% of the state in moderate-to-extreme drought; SCFC Fire Chief Darryl Jones instructed residents to notify the commission before burning, and Horry County scheduled its local ban lift for Tuesday at 8 a.m.
More context
Timeline
- 1. March 27: South Carolina Forestry Commission issues statewide burn ban due to low humidity and gusty winds.
- 2. Weekend (late March): A roughly 300-acre wildfire occurs in Dillon County and is contained within several hours.
- 3. Weekend (late March): North Charleston responds to a fast-moving outside fire near Aviation Avenue requiring multiple units.
- 4. Monday morning: SC Forestry Commission lifts the statewide burn ban; announcement posted via release and X; ban ends at 7 a.m.
- 5. Tuesday morning: Horry County schedules lifting of its local burn ban for 8 a.m.; residents reminded to contact SCFC before burning.
Why it matters
The lifted burn ban in South Carolina means you can now have controlled fires, but caution is key. With 86% of the state in moderate-to-extreme drought, fire danger is still high. Before you burn, notify the Forestry Commission.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
