Extreme Heat Safety: South Carolina DPH is warning of prolonged extreme heat risk statewide, urging people to check on neighbors, pets, and anyone with health conditions as heat-related illness hospitalizations and emergency visits remain high. Local Heat Alerts: Upstate SC is under a heat advisory with dangerous heat index values, and Charlotte-area counties are also covered—officials say hydrate, stay in air conditioning, and avoid leaving kids or pets in cars. Drought Watch: Rain has eased drought in parts of North Carolina, but severe to extreme conditions persist in some areas, so conservation rules may still apply. Storm Response: South Carolina State Fire’s Palmetto Incident Support Team has deployed to Hawaii to help prepare for Tropical Storm Lala, boosting Honolulu emergency operations. Energy Efficiency: Dominion Energy shared practical tips to cut cooling costs during triple-digit heat, including setting thermostats at 78°F or higher and using fans. Conservation & Outdoors: Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge will host a hunter education course, emphasizing conservation and outdoor safety. Coastal Conservation Leadership: The S.C. Coastal Conservation League is set to get new management, with Megan Desrosiers returning to lead conservation efforts. Manufacturing & Jobs: UFP Packaging plans a $5.31M expansion in Gaffney to produce packaging materials and create 136 jobs.