South Carolina’s Upstate is waking up dry and windy, and the air already carries that sharp, dusty feel that signals elevated fire danger. Tree tops sway along I-85, and even light debris skitters across parking lots.
A Red Flag Warning remains in effect from 8 a.m. until 11 p.m. for Greenville, Spartanburg, and surrounding counties . The National Weather Service warns that northeast winds of 10 to 25 mph will gust up to 40 mph. Relative humidity could drop as low as 15 percent this afternoon.
Any fire that starts will spread quickly.
According to the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg, these critical fire weather conditions are driven by gusty winds, very low humidity, and dry fuels across the western Carolinas and northeast Georgia . Outdoor burning is not recommended.
Temperatures climb to around 62 degrees today under sunny skies. Winds remain steady through the afternoon before easing tonight, when lows fall to 36 degrees under clear skies.
Secure trailer chains and avoid equipment that throws sparks. One ember can race through dry grass in minutes.
Sunday stays sunny with a high near 65. Monday warms to 74 degrees, and Tuesday pushes near 80 under mostly sunny skies. By Wednesday, rain chances return, with scattered showers and possible thunderstorms after 2 p.m. and highs near 81.
Relief may come midweek, but today’s fire threat is immediate.
Longer-range trends into early April point to continued above-normal warmth across the Upstate.
Are you seeing smoky conditions or controlled burns in your area today?
