South Carolina Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for South Carolina - August 23, 2026

Overview

South Carolina is currently experiencing typical late-summer weather with high humidity and scattered thunderstorms, which has kept the natural wildland fire threat relatively low across the state. The current National Preparedness Level is 5, indicating that national firefighting resources are heavily committed to large incidents, primarily in the western United States, and international resources are being mobilized to assist.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Natural wildland fire activity within South Carolina remains at normal, low levels for this time of year due to recent precipitation and high humidity. Over the last 72 hours, firefighters and emergency responders have continued to monitor the state for any new wildland fire starts while local agencies support national interagency mobilization efforts.

Key Fires:
Horse Island Fire: Located in Berkeley County, this recent significant fire burned 1,012 acres and is currently 100% contained. Fueled primarily by coastal brush, grass, and timber, crews have successfully secured the perimeter. While the incident is fully contained, local resources have continued to monitor the area over the last 72 hours for any lingering hotspots.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: There are currently no statewide burn bans in effect. However, the South Carolina Forestry Commission (SCFC) reminds residents that state law requires citizens to notify the SCFC before burning yard debris in unincorporated areas. All burning for forestry, wildlife, and agriculture purposes must comply with South Carolina's Smoke Management Guidelines. Prescribed burns are being utilized where weather and vegetation conditions allow for wildfire hazard reduction and wildlife habitat improvement.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Conditions across central South Carolina are mostly sunny to partly cloudy with daytime temperatures in the 70s to low 90s. Humidity remains high, ranging from 50% to over 70%.
Forecasted Weather: The forecast for the upcoming 72 hours includes continued chances of scattered to heavy thunderstorms and light rain. These wet and humid conditions will continue to mitigate the risk of significant wildland fire ignition and spread. No Red Flag Warnings or Fire Weather Watches are currently in effect for the state.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: While broad burn bans are not currently in effect, residents are urged to monitor local conditions, clear a firebreak around burning sites, and ensure they have the right equipment available to keep fires under control. It is crucial to stay with any outdoor fire until it is completely safe, as escaped debris burns are the number one cause of wildfires in the state.
Resource Allocation: With the National Preparedness Level at 5, many resources are committed nationally. Local agencies maintain readiness for initial attack on any new starts in the state, ensuring that despite national resource constraints, South Carolina remains protected.

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.