CHARLESTON, S.C. – In a decisive move to combat a surge in wildfires, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has declared a statewide state of emergency.

The declaration comes as firefighters across the Palmetto State struggle to contain nearly 200 wildfires that have already scorched thousands of acres of land, raising concerns for residents, property, and natural resources.

Unprecedented Wildfire Activity

In recent days, emergency services have reported that over 4,000 acres have burned statewide. The rapid spread of these fires has alarmed officials and locals alike, as the blaze outbreak appears to be unprecedented for this time of year.

South Carolina’s Forestry Commission has been actively tracking the situation and noted that the wildfires have been documented across several regions, with the most severe impacts observed in the Pee Dee and Lowcountry areas.

Governor McMaster’s recent executive order aims to streamline emergency response efforts while addressing the immediate hazards that these fires pose. “This state of emergency ensures that our first responders have all the resources they need to safeguard our communities,” McMaster said. “The dangerous wildfire conditions require a comprehensive approach, including a strict statewide ban on outdoor burning until we can bring the situation under control. Anyone found violating this ban will face criminal charges.”