COLUMBIA, SC – Dry conditions and gusty winds will keep South Carolina under an elevated fire danger through Saturday evening, increasing risks for outdoor burning. Officials warn that strong winds reaching up to 30 mph, combined with low humidity, could lead to rapidly spreading fires.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, a Fire Danger Statement remains in effect until 8 p.m. Saturday. Southwest winds of 25-30 mph on Friday will briefly subside overnight before picking up again Saturday afternoon. With humidity levels remaining low, the potential for wildfires will persist, particularly in areas with dry vegetation.
Residents should check with local authorities before burning and exercise extreme caution with open flames. Windy conditions may cause flames to spread quickly, making containment difficult.
Five-Day Forecast for Columbia, SC
• Saturday (March 1): Sunny, high of 75°F. Winds 6-13 mph, gusts up to 23 mph.
• Saturday Night: Mostly clear, low of 37°F. Winds shift to the north after midnight.
• Sunday: Cooler with a high of 55°F, mostly sunny.
• Monday: Mostly sunny, high of 58°F, low of 38°F.
• Tuesday: Partly sunny, high of 70°F. Rain chances return Tuesday night (40%).
The warm weather continues into early next week, but rain is expected by Wednesday, bringing a 70% chance of showers.
