South Carolina Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for South Carolina - August 10, 2026

Overview

South Carolina is currently experiencing a near-normal risk of wildfire for the summer season, though recent weather patterns have elevated concerns. Forecasters with the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) note that a lack of tropical moisture has led to below-normal rainfall across parts of the state, contributing to dry conditions and an increased potential for fire activity as the summer progresses. The current National Preparedness Level remains high due to significant fire activity in the Western United States, meaning local and state resources must remain vigilant and ready for rapid initial attack.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Over the last 72 hours, fire activity in South Carolina has seen a slight uptick, with several smaller fires reported along the coastal regions. Hot conditions, with temperatures consistently exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit, combined with dry fuels and recent lightning strikes, have sparked these new starts. Firefighters from the South Carolina Forestry Commission (SCFC) and local agencies are actively working to contain these fires and are closely monitoring the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) to predict potential rapid spread.

Key Fires:
Coastal Brush Fires: Several smaller, active fires are currently being managed along the coastal areas of South Carolina, including near Horry County. These fires are primarily fueled by dry coastal brush, spartina grass, and downed timber and debris left over from past storm systems. Crews have made exceptional progress in securing the perimeters and are currently focused on mopping up and patrolling for remaining heat sources that could pose a threat.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: The South Carolina Forestry Commission is actively preparing for the upcoming prescribed fire season. Registration for the state's Certified Prescribed Fire Manager (CPFM) training classes officially opened this August to help land managers safely conduct burns that comply with the South Carolina Smoke Management Guidelines. These controlled burns are essential for reducing hazardous fuel loads—such as dry 10-hour and 100-hour woody debris—and mitigating future wildfire risks. Residents are reminded that state law requires notification to the SCFC prior to burning yard debris or conducting agricultural burns.

Air Quality: Smoke from the recent coastal fires and localized debris burning may temporarily impact air quality in low-lying areas and along coastal corridors. Residents in affected areas, particularly those with respiratory conditions, should remain aware of local air quality forecasts and exercise caution when outdoors.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: The state is experiencing hot and dry conditions, with daytime high temperatures remaining in the 90s. Relative humidity levels have been lower than average for August, accelerating the drying of ground fuels.
Forecasted Weather: Over the next 72 hours, the drying trend is expected to continue. The NIFC and National Weather Service anticipate below-normal rainfall due to a lack of tropical moisture entering the Southern Area. While winds are currently moderate, any localized gusty conditions combined with low humidity could significantly increase fire behavior and the risk of rapid spread.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Escaped debris burns remain the number one cause of wildfires in South Carolina. Residents are strongly advised to avoid outdoor burning on days with dry weather, low relative humidity, and gusty winds. It is crucial to maintain defensible space by clearing dead brush from properties and to have a family emergency plan in place.
Resource Allocation: With federal firefighting resources heavily committed to large-scale incidents in the Western U.S. and Canada, South Carolina is relying on state and local crews to manage current incidents. Agencies are emphasizing strict fire prevention measures and rapid response tactics to ensure new ignitions are kept small.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
South Carolina Forestry Commission: www.scfc.gov
South Carolina Emergency Management Division: www.scemd.org

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.