South Carolina Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for South Carolina - June 01, 2026

Overview

South Carolina is currently managing an elevated wildfire risk driven by persistent drought conditions across much of the state. While the state has recently transitioned out of its peak spring fire season and a statewide burn ban was lifted on May 1, dry vegetation and heavy residual fuel loads from past storms, such as Hurricane Helene, continue to present potentially risky situations for wildfires. The current situation requires continued vigilance, as state resources remain actively engaged in fire management and drought mitigation.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Fire activity remains a focal point for state emergency officials, with escaped debris burns being the number one cause of wildfires in the state. Firefighters are actively monitoring for new starts and managing the lingering effects of recent fires.

Key Fires:

• Woodbury Fire: Located in Marion County, this fire has burned approximately 1,750 acres and is currently up to 80% contained. Originally stemming from the re-ignition of a prescribed burn, it is primarily fueled by Southern Rough, timber, tall grass, and forest understory. Firefighters have made significant progress due to favorable flat terrain and moderate fire behavior, keeping the rate of spread in check over the last 72 hours. Crews continue to monitor the area to manage underground smoldering and prevent further spread.
• Woodlawn Fire: Located in southern McCormick County on the Long Cane Ranger District of Sumter National Forest and South Carolina Department of Natural Resources land, this fire has burned 632 acres. It is holding within control lines and is burning in heavy dead and down debris left over from Hurricane Helene. Firefighters are working to burn interior fuel pockets and reduce hazardous fuels around the perimeter of the fire.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: The South Carolina Forestry Commission continues to oversee land management activities. While the statewide burn ban was lifted, residents who conduct outdoor burning of residential yard debris or prescribed burns must still notify the Forestry Commission before doing so. Controlled burns remain an essential tool for reducing wildfire hazards, controlling brush, and managing the heavy fuel loads remaining in forests from past storms.

Air Quality: Smoke from active fires and smoldering larger fuels may impact local areas. The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) previously issued an Air Quality Alert for Horry County due to calm, stagnant weather conditions limiting smoke dispersion. Residents near the Woodlawn Fire in McCormick County and along Woodlawn Road and Highway 28 should also be cautious of smoke affecting visibility.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Over the last 72 hours, parts of the state, including the Midlands (Richland and Lexington counties), have experienced mostly cloudy to partly sunny conditions with scattered light rain and high humidity levels ranging from 80% to 94%.
Forecasted Weather: The forecast for the coming days includes partly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions with periodic chances of light rain and thunderstorms (10% to 45% chance). Temperatures will range from the mid-60s to the mid-90s, with humidity levels dropping into the 50% range during the day. While there are currently no active Red Flag Warnings, the underlying drought status means that any dry, gusty days could quickly elevate fire danger.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents are urged to practice extreme caution with any outdoor burning, as escaped debris burns account for more wildfire ignitions than all other causes combined. It is crucial to respect the weather, ensure fires are completely extinguished, and never fly drones near wildfires, as they can ground firefighting aircraft and delay response efforts.
Resource Allocation: Firefighters and state agencies, including the South Carolina Forestry Commission and the U.S. Forest Service, are working collaboratively to manage incidents. Agencies are utilizing mastication and controlled burning operations to contain fires and mitigate hazardous fuels.

Resources

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

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.