Aynor Prepares for Above-Normal Wildfire Season Amid Hurricane Aftermath
Aynor, S.C. — As hurricane season winds down, South Carolina is bracing itself for a potentially severe wildfire season. According to a new forecast, the coastal areas of the state, particularly the Grand Strand and Coastal Lowcountry, are expected to experience an **above-normal fire season** extending through March.
The announcement was made by Darryl Jones, Chief of the South Carolina Forestry Commission’s Protection Division. He noted, “This is not going to be a normal season; this is going to be somewhat above that.” The prediction has been influenced by the storm damage caused by **Hurricane Helene** and an anticipated **La Niña dry pattern** that could exacerbate wildfire risks.
Current Forecasts and Implications
The wildfire conditions in South Carolina are expected to escalate significantly. The National Interagency Coordination Center has indicated that the entire state will see **‘above normal’** wildfire impacts starting in February. Jones expressed concern over the forecasts, stating, “It does look pretty bad; the whole map is red for the next three months.” This stark prediction raises alarms, especially considering the historical average of **1,300 wildfires annually** in South Carolina over the past five years.
In 2022, the state recorded nearly **2,000 wildfires**, marking an above-average season. Local fire agencies are preparing for this heightened risk, with various strategies in place to combat the anticipated fires.
Preparation and Readiness Measures
Horry County officials are also taking proactive measures, aligning with the state’s response efforts. Captain Tim Rainbolt, who oversees the Special Wildfire Response Team, stressed the importance of being ready for sudden changes in fire behavior. “Right now, we’re able to get after these fires quickly, they’re slow-moving fires, but it’s not to say that couldn’t change,” Rainbolt warned.
Residents are urged to practice fire safety, which includes securing permits for larger debris burns, maintaining a nearby water source, and monitoring weather conditions to prevent fire spread. Jones highlighted the potential for individual fires to escalate, stating, “There may be a lot more potential for it to get bigger because it’s in more fuel or the conditions are drier.”
New Resources and Strategies
To enhance firefighting efficacy, the South Carolina Forestry Commission is adding new resources this year. A single-engine plane equipped for water drops will become operational in February, a much-needed tool for wildland firefighting efforts. “We knew that we were due for a bad fire season, and we need to be prepared to protect the public and protect their homes,” Jones explained.
This collaborative effort between state and local agencies aims to safeguard communities and natural resources as conditions worsen. The transition to **drier fuels** and the recent history of hurricane damage highlights the urgency for preparedness in the upcoming months.
Concluding Remarks
As South Carolina gears up for a challenging wildfire season, the emphasis on readiness and community safety remains paramount. The coming months will be critical, as both state officials and residents have an important role in minimizing risks and protecting lives and properties from fire hazards.
