Major Wildfires Rage in Upstate SC: Table Rock and Persimmon Ridge Fires Force Evacuations

Why this matters: These wildfires pose an immediate threat to resident safety, property, and natural resources in the affected areas. The situation highlights the dangers of dry conditions and the critical importance of fire safety, while also straining emergency services.

Background

The fires ignited in late March 2025 amidst exceptionally dry and windy conditions in Upstate South Carolina. The Table Rock Fire began on March 21st in Table Rock State Park, reportedly due to negligence by four hikers. The Persimmon Ridge Fire started the next day in the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area.

Escalating Situation

Driven by adverse weather, including very low relative humidity and strong wind gusts, both fires saw rapid expansion and extreme behavior, nearly doubling in size within a day according to recent reports. The presence of dry, downed timber from the previous year's Hurricane Helene provided ample fuel, making containment efforts exceptionally challenging. As of the latest updates, neither fire has been contained.

Response and Public Safety

Emergency Management Divisions in Greenville and Pickens counties issued mandatory evacuation orders for dozens of communities bordering the fire zones. Residents were directed to shelters, like the one at Marietta First Baptist Church (2936 Geer Hwy, Marietta, SC). A public information line (864-467-3428) was established for non-emergency inquiries (7 a.m. - 7 p.m.). Officials stress using 911 for emergencies only. Over 148 state firefighters, along with local crews and specialized equipment including air support, are working tirelessly, but challenging conditions, including poor visibility limiting air tanker deployment at times, have hampered efforts. A statewide burn ban remains in effect.

How did the wildfires start?

The Table Rock Fire was reportedly started by negligent hikers on March 21. The Persimmon Ridge Fire, which started March 22, is also confirmed as human-caused.

Which areas are under evacuation orders?

Mandatory evacuations are in place for communities east and northeast of the Table Rock Fire (Pickens Co.) and surrounding the Persimmon Ridge Fire (Greenville Co.), including areas along Oil Camp Creek Road east to River Falls Road, south to Highway 11, and west to West Gate Road. Residents should check official sources like the SC Forestry Commission or County Emergency Management for specific street-level details.

Are the fires contained?

No, as of the latest reports from the South Carolina Forestry Commission, both the Table Rock Fire and the Persimmon Ridge Fire are 0% contained.

How is the smoke affecting air quality?

An Air Quality Alert is active due to smoke, with fine particulate concentrations potentially reaching unhealthy levels. Residents are advised to limit outdoor exposure, especially those with respiratory conditions.

The rapid spread of these fires underscores the impact of weather conditions on wildfire risk. How can communities and individuals better prepare for wildfire seasons potentially intensified by environmental changes?

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