South Carolina battles over 175 wildfires as Governor McMaster issues emergency order and enforces a statewide burning ban
South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has issued Executive Order 2025-10, declaring a State of Emergency in response to the escalating wildfire crisis engulfing South Carolina. The order, announced today, aims to bolster emergency response efforts as firefighters battle flames sweeping across multiple regions.
4,200 Acres Impacted
According to the State Fire Marshal, over 175 wildfires have been reported, impacting more than 4,200 acres across the state. The most heavily affected counties include Horry, Spartanburg, Oconee, Union, and Pickens, where dry and windy conditions have fueled the fires’ spread.
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The South Carolina Forestry Commission issued a State Forester’s Burning Ban on March 1, 2025, prohibiting all outdoor burning activities, including yard debris burning, prescribed burns, and campfires.
Darryl Jones, Forest Protection Chief for the South Carolina Forestry Commission, warned that the situation remains critical. “While a majority of the current wildfire activity is concentrated in the Pee Dee region, the rest of the state is experiencing a dramatic uptick in wildfires, straining the capacity of Forestry Commission firefighters and local emergency response personnel to respond,” Jones stated.
Outdoor Fire Ban
The executive order also maintains a statewide ban on outdoor burning until further notice. Governor McMaster emphasized the necessity of these measures, stating, “This State of Emergency ensures that our first responders, who are working tirelessly and risking their lives to protect our communities from these wildfires, have the resources they need. Dangerous wildfire conditions require that a statewide burning ban remain in effect until further notice. Those who violate this ban will be subject to criminal prosecution.”
Residents are urged to stay informed through official emergency channels and report any immediate threats by calling 911. As South Carolina faces this severe wildfire season, authorities continue to stress the importance of public cooperation in adhering to the burning ban and staying vigilant in fire-prone areas.
THRIVE! News will continue to provide updates as the situation develops.
