Columbia, S.C. – A surge of dry air sweeping in behind Tuesday’s cold front is creating near-critical fire weather conditions across central South Carolina this afternoon. The combination of low humidity and gusty winds means even small outdoor burns could quickly escape control.
According to the National Weather Service office in Columbia, minimum relative humidity values will drop into the 20–30% range today, while westerly winds of 10–15 mph—with higher gusts—persist through sunset. The highest concern zones include Richland, Lexington, Aiken, and Sumter counties, where vegetation remains dry from recent rain deficits.
Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning, particularly between noon and 6 p.m. when humidity is lowest and winds are strongest. Those who must burn should have suppression tools ready and never leave fires unattended. Forestry crews across the Midlands are on alert for potential flare-ups, and local fire departments may restrict permits temporarily if conditions worsen.
Temperatures will stay seasonable, topping out near 72°F in Columbia with clear skies and cooler air arriving overnight. Similar low-humidity conditions are expected Thursday before moisture gradually returns late in the week.
