//Red Flag Fire Alert in effect for all of South Carolina; outdoor burning discouraged this weekend

Red Flag Fire Alert in effect for all of South Carolina; outdoor burning discouraged this weekend

Columbia, SC (FOX Carolina) – The South Carolina Forestry Commission has issued a state wide Red Flag Fire Alert effective immediately.

Officials say due to weather forecast indicating stronger-than-normal wind gusts and low humidity, combined with dry fuel on the ground, fires outdoors could easily escape and spread rapidly.

SCFC personnel say the purpose of the alert is two-fold: it will discourage outdoor burning and will help prevent strain on fire departments and other first responders needed for COVID-19 related emergencies.

“With the otherwise nice weather this weekend, we just want people who may be working in their yards or enjoying the outdoors to be aware of the elevated potential for fire danger,” SCFC Fire Chief Darryl Jones said.

The alert will remain in effect until lifted by the Commission, whose fire response teams will continuously monitor the situation throughout the weekend.

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