Upstate South Carolina, October 23, 2025

News Summary

A fire danger alert has been issued for multiple counties in Upstate South Carolina and Western North Carolina due to dry and windy conditions. Residents are advised to exercise caution with outdoor burning as minimum humidity values are forecasted between 20% to 30%, and wind gusts may reach up to 25 mph. The ongoing Table Rock Complex Fire, affecting over 12,000 acres, remains a pressing concern. The alert emphasizes the importance of monitoring local weather and adhering to safety protocols during this heightened fire risk period.

Greenville, SC – Fire Danger Alert Issued Across Western North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina

The National Weather Service (NWS) Greenville-Spartanburg SC has issued a fire danger alert as of 1:27 a.m. on Thursday, with the alert in effect until 3 p.m. on the same day. This advisory covers multiple areas, including the Oconee Mountains, Pickens Mountains, Greater Oconee, Greater Pickens, Cherokee County, York County, Anderson County, Abbeville County, Laurens County, Union County, Chester County, Greenwood County, Greenville County, and Spartanburg County.

The alert is prompted by dry and windy conditions expected throughout the day. Forecasts indicate that minimum relative humidity values will range from 20% to 30%, while wind gusts could reach between 15 mph to 25 mph. The combination of dry grasses and fuels under these conditions significantly increases the risk for wildfires in the region.

Residents are urged to consult local burn permitting authorities regarding outdoor burning. If residents choose to engage in outdoor burning, exercising extreme caution is advised due to the rapid potential for fire spread. This advisory comes in light of recent wildfire activities in the region.

Earlier in October, the South Carolina Forestry Commission lifted a burn ban for 41 counties, but restrictions still apply in five counties: Greenville, Horry, Oconee, Pickens, and Spartanburg. Currently, the Table Rock Complex Fire, which has grown over 12,000 acres, is the largest mountain wildfire in South Carolina’s history and is reported to be 30% contained. Additionally, the Persimmon Ridge Fire is noted to be 64% contained.

Understanding Burn Bans

The burn ban is a legal prohibition on outdoor burning when conditions pose a significant threat to public safety. There are two types of burning bans: the State Forester’s Burning Ban, which prohibits all outdoor burning in specific areas, and the Governor’s Burn Ban, which is less restrictive and allows certain agricultural burning. The South Carolina Forestry Commission’s decision to lift the ban in many counties reflects improved fire conditions expected over the coming week.

Wildfire Risk Awareness

Fire Chief Darryl Jones has underscored the necessity for residents to use fire prudently and remain aware of the prevailing weather conditions. April is historically noted as the worst month for wildfires in South Carolina, and above-average fire danger and wildfire activity are anticipated this year.

Residents are cautioned that they will be held accountable for any fires they may unintentionally allow to escape. Monitoring local weather conditions and adhering to safety protocols is crucial during this period.

Key Points

• Alert Issuance Time: 1:27 a.m. on Thursday
• Alert End Time: 3 p.m. on the same day
• Minimum Relative Humidity: 20% to 30%
• Wind Gusts: 15 mph to 25 mph
• Table Rock Complex Fire: 12,000 acres, 30% contained
• Persimmon Ridge Fire: 64% contained
• Areas Covered: 13 counties including Greenville and Spartanburg

Conclusion

As the conditions change, residents should be vigilant and informed about the risks associated with outdoor burning. Following local guidelines and understanding the ongoing fire situation will help mitigate potential dangers during this critical time.

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Additional Resources

• The State
• Wikipedia: Wildfire
• Fox Carolina
• Google Search: Fire Danger
• Greenville Online
• Google Scholar: Fire Safety
• Myrtle Beach Online
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Burn Ban
• WYFF4
• Google News: Wildfires

Author: HERE Greenwood

The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.