SC drought conditions persist as statewide burn ban remains in place

South Carolina Dept. of Natural Resources Drought Status Map (Credit: SCDNR)

(WPDE) — South Carolina still deals with drought conditions across the state after a dry winter and a dry start to spring.

In February, six counties were declared drought-free and have now slipped back into drought status, according to an SCDNR map.

Since the 13 counties from the midlands to the southern coast have received closer to normal rainfall and streamflow, there is no drought status declared for them.

Lake levels are in good shape across the state, but normal streamflow and ground conditions in the upstate allowed officials to move these counties into ‘incipient’ status.

The South Carolina Forestry Commission is facing multiple fires and acres burned across the state, which continues to be above normal levels. Through April, the Drought Response Committee will closely monitor conditions.

South Carolina is currently under a statewide burn ban issued by the Forestry Commission.