Wildfire risk triggers red flag warning in Beaufort County. What to know
A red flag warning has been issued for Beaufort and Jasper counties starting Saturday as dry conditions, strong winds and low humidity increase the risk of fast-moving wildfires in the area, according to the National Weather Service’s Charleston Office.
The warning signals some of the most hazardous fire conditions, with even a small spark being capable of initiating unintended fire.
By Friday at 4 p.m., every county in the state will be under a burning ban by the South Carolina Forestry Commission, which prohibits outdoor burning, including yard debris, prescribed burning, campfires, bonfires and other recreational fires. The statewide ban will stay in effect until further notice.
Dangerously low relative humidities, combined with dry fuels and gusty winds creates “a particularly volatile mix” of wildfire risk factors throughout the weekend, according to the commission. In the Lowcountry, wind gusts could get up to 40 miles per hour with relative humidity as low as 15 percent.
