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Furman continues to monitor wildfires
An aerial view of the Furman University campus at sunset. Photo by Owen Withycombe, Furman University.
Update: Friday, March 28, 2025, 2:45 p.m.
Furman University’s Emergency Response Team continues to monitor the Table Rock and Persimmon Ridge fires burning north of campus. The fires have not spread southward toward campus, and wind conditions in the past 24 hours have largely kept smoke away.
Winds in the fire areas are expected to remain low today, and relative humidity is rising, making conditions more favorable for fire fighters. Rain is in the forecast for Sunday and Monday, and the Greenville County Emergency Management and the local fire marshal have assured us that the fires do not pose a risk to Furman’s campus.
Regardless of the low risk, many units on campus have been reviewing protocols to be prepared in case conditions worsen. Greenville County Emergency Management has assured us they have resources to assist our efforts if needed. Furman Facilities Management teams have also consulted with EPA guidelines on reducing smoke indoors.
As we mentioned Wednesday, the Earle Student Health Center advises students and others who have a history of asthma or other respiratory illnesses might want to limit their time outdoors. Students who have questions about their health may contact the Earle Student Health Center.
We will continue to monitor the fires and air quality alerts and will send other notifications as needed.
Original post: Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Furman University’s Emergency Response Team is closely monitoring forest fires that are burning in far-northern South Carolina and North Carolina. These fires are still many miles from campus, and at this time authorities see no threat to campus or Greenville.
So far, according to the National Weather Service, the air quality at Furman is moderate. At times, winds will blow smoke over campus. The Earle Student Health Center advises students and others who have a history of asthma or other respiratory illnesses might want to limit their time outdoors. Students who have questions about their health may contact the Earle Student Health Center.
We know that some faculty and staff who live in the burning areas have had to evacuate. Our hearts go out to them and everyone affected by the fires.
The Emergency Response Team will continue to monitor the fires and air quality alerts and will send other notifications as needed.