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Winds, Controlled Burns Create Smoky Conditions Throughout Midlands on Sunday

High winds and several controlled burns created super smoky condition throughout the Midlands on Sunday.
Credit: Rich O'Dell/WLTX

We received a number of phone calls from viewers Sunday concerned that there may be a fire on base at Fort Jackson or in the area.

Credit: Rich O'Dell/WLTX

Not to worry! While details are limited, Fort Jackson's Forestry Division did conducting a prescribed burn on base Sunday, according to officials at Fort Jackson.

Monday morning, the S.C. Department of Transportation reported delays on I-20 West between Exit 82 (Spears Creek Church Road) and Exit 80 (Clemson Road) due to a brush fire.

Related: Fire Danger is High Throughout the Midlands

The National Weather Service raised the fire condition status for counties across the Midlands to high Saturday, saying high winds and low humidity have created the perfect conditions for fire this weekend.

Meanwhile, the Fairfield County Fire Service is investigating 11 brush fires that consumed about 85 acres, which they believe were 'set intentionally' Saturday afternoon.

Monday morning, Fairfield County Fire Service reported that the fires are contained after the State Forestry Commission worked most of the day Sunday. However, they warn there may still be smoke in the area today and urge drivers to use caution.

Related: Fairfield County Officials Believe Brush Fires 'Set Intentionally'

Over in Newberry, the sheriff's office issued a notice Sunday afternoon that there was smoke in the area due to a 400-acre controlled burn near Riser Road. Officials say winds carried smoke over the City of Newberry and toward Prosperity.

In Lee County, the fire officials say multiple prescribed burns caused significant smoke throughout the county. Later Sunday evening, the Lee County Fire Department said smoke and flames visible in the area were originating from a landowner's controlled burn in Lynchburg, near Highway SC-341 and US-401.

Monday morning, the Lee County Fire Department said it expected continued smoke in the area and additional burns throughout the day.

Credit: Lee County Fire Department
Controlled Burn in Lynchburg, March 4, 2018

So, how do you know if there is a controlled burn in your area?

  1. Monitor your local firefighting agency on Facebook or Twitter.Most agencies provide real-time updates on fires and conditions for their area.
  2. Check the S.C. Forestry Commission's interactive map.

To notify the State Forestry Commission of a prescribed or controlled burn in your area, 1-800-777-FIRE (3473).

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