Active Weather Alerts
Air Quality Alert
Issued: 7:00 PM Apr. 22, 2026 – National Weather Service
...AIR QUALITY ALERT IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 PM EDT THURSDAY... The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) has issued a Code Orange Air Quality Alert for fine particulates for the Central Savannah River, Central Midlands, and portions of the Pee Dee region of South Carolina through Thursday evening. A code orange Air Quality Alert means that the fine particulate concentrations within the specified areas may approach or exceed unhealthy standards for individuals sensitive to particle pollution. Southerly winds on the west side of high pressure centered just off the Southeast coast will continue to transport smoke from the southern Georgia wildfires into South Carolina and the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA). As of the early afternoon hours Wednesday, air quality was already deteriorating over the CSRA and Midlands regions. As stable conditions develop tonight, smoke is expected to expand in coverage and become noticeable. Smoke from the wildfires is expected to continue to affect the region on Thursday. SCDES recommends that individuals with respiratory health issues limit time spend outdoors and/or move all activities indoors to avoid the smoke or fine particulates. Keep windows and doors closed. Run an air conditioner if you have one but keep the fresh-air intake closed and the filter clean to prevent outdoor smoke and fine particulates from getting inside. For more information about fine particulates, please visit: https://fire.airnow.gov For more information about wildfires/prescribed burns, please visit: https://www.scfc.gov/
Special Weather Statement
Issued: 5:38 PM Apr. 22, 2026 – National Weather Service
...AREAS OF SMOKE REDUCING VISIBILITY THROUGH SUNSET... Smoke from wildfires in central and southern Georgia are moving into the CSRA and Midlands, causing reduced visibilities, with some locations dropping to between 3 and 6 miles, or briefly lower in thicker pockets of dense smoke. This may create hazardous travel, especially for motorists driving along and south of I-20, where visibility can change quickly over short distances. In addition, people with asthma or other respiratory sensitivities may experience irritation and should consider limiting prolonged time outdoors.
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