South Carolina Gov Henry McMaster has issued an executive order declaring a state of emergency to support South Carolina’s ongoing response to the Table Rock Fire in Pickens County.
The order bolsters emergency efforts as firefighters work to contain the fire. Additionally, the order states that a ban on outdoor burning will remain in effect until further notice.
“As this wildfire continues to spread, the state of emergency allows us to mobilize resources quickly and ensure our firefighters have the support they need to protect lives and property,” McMaster, a Republican, said in a release. “Given the elevated risk of wildfires throughout the state, the statewide burning ban will remain in effect until further notice. Anyone who violates this ban can and will go to jail.”
The Table Rock Fire, which ignited Friday, is estimated at 35-plus acres and continues to grow. Personnel from the South Carolina Forestry Commission (SCFC), The Nature Conservancy, Greenville Water, the USDA Forest Service, and local fire departments are working to contain the fire.
Four aircraft are providing aviation support, including one SCFC airplane surveying the fire, two SCFC single-engine air tankers dropping water, and one SLED helicopter using a Bambi bucket to drop water.
On March 21, 2025, the South Carolina Forestry Commission issued a State Forester’s Burning Ban for all counties. The ban prohibits all outdoor burning, including yard debris burning, prescribed burning, and campfires.
South Carolina State Parks has announced that all trails at Table Rock State Park are closed until further notice.
Residents are urged to stay informed through local channels and to report any debris fires to local fire and law enforcement authorities immediately.
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