Woodlawn

Fire Start, Size and Growth

Start Date/Time/Location: The Woodlawn Fire ignited around 6:00 p.m. on Friday, March 13, 2026, in southern McCormick County, South Carolina, approximately six miles north of Evans, Georgia. It is burning on the Long Cane Ranger District of the Sumter National Forest and South Carolina Department of Natural Resources land.
Size and Containment: As of April 12, 2026, the fire has burned 632 acres and is currently 90% contained.
Fuels, Growth and Rate of Spread: The fire is primarily fueled by timber, grass, and heavy dead and down debris left behind by Hurricane Helene. This dense debris initially made it difficult for firefighters to access the area and contributed to the fire's early growth. Over the last 72 hours, the fire has exhibited minimal growth and minimal fire behavior.
Containment Efforts: The U.S. Forest Service is working in Unified Command with the South Carolina Forestry Commission, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, and the Clarks Hill Fire Department. Firefighters successfully utilized aircraft for strategic firing operations and masticators to grind debris along control lines. Crews are currently focused on monitoring the area to ensure the fire remains securely within its containment lines.

Emergency Information

Evacuations and Sheltering:
Mandatory Evacuation Orders: There are currently no mandatory evacuation orders in place.
Evacuation Warnings: No evacuation warnings have been issued for this incident.
Curfew: No curfews are currently in effect.
Evacuation Shelters and Information: Because there are no evacuations, no shelters have been opened. Zero people are estimated to be displaced by this fire.

Road and Infrastructure Closures:

• Drivers are advised to use caution on Woodlawn Road and Highway 28 due to the potential for lingering smoke to impact visibility.
• There are no major road, school, or infrastructure closures currently reported for this fire.

For more information, visit:

• U.S. Forest Service - Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests
• South Carolina Forestry Commission
• McCormick County Emergency Services

Current Impact

Impacts:
Injuries and Fatalities: There have been no reported injuries or fatalities associated with the Woodlawn Fire.
Structures Impacted: No structures have been threatened, damaged, or destroyed.
School and Business Closures: There are no reported school or business closures due to this fire.
Notable Impacts: The fire is burning in rural, rugged terrain heavily impacted by Hurricane Helene. It is not currently threatening any major communities or notable structures.

Safety Concerns:
Power Outages: There are no reported power outages associated with this fire.
Water Safety: No specific water safety concerns have been reported.
Burn Bans: While the recent Red Flag Fire Alert was lifted, residents should check local county guidelines for any persistent outdoor burning restrictions.
Air Quality: Lingering smoke may pose health risks, particularly for those with respiratory conditions, and could impact visibility on local roadways.

Ongoing Outlook

Containment Projections: The fire is currently 90% contained and exhibiting minimal fire behavior. Firefighters project that the fire will remain within its current 632-acre footprint. Personnel and equipment will remain in the area over the coming days to patrol the perimeter, conduct mop-up operations, and ensure the fire stays within established control lines.
Weather and Wind Warnings: The recent Red Flag Fire Alert was lifted on April 10. While South Carolina has been experiencing an elevated fire risk due to a widespread deficit of rainfall and dormant vegetation, weather conditions have recently moderated, aiding containment efforts.

Cause and the Role of Weather and Climate

Cause: The official cause of the Woodlawn Fire remains unknown and is under investigation. However, the South Carolina Forestry Commission notes that 98% of wildfires in the state are human-caused.
Weather and Climate: The fire's initial spread and intensity were heavily influenced by the abundance of dry surface fuels and massive debris loads remaining in western forests from Hurricane Helene. Additionally, a widespread deficit of rainfall has intensified drought conditions across much of the state, contributing to a volatile peak wildfire season this spring.

For more information, visit:

• U.S. Forest Service - Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests
• South Carolina Forestry Commission
• McCormick County Emergency Services