ANDERSON, SC - Due to an ongoing drought, in which five upstate counties were upgraded to extreme this week, Anderson County fire officials are discouraging people from using fireworks in their Fourth of July celebrations.

County Fire Chief Billy Gibson has said that fireworks can easily start brush fires. There will be professional fireworks displays in the area. Fireworks enthusiasts are encouraged to attend one of those.

A Fourth of July celebration will take place in Seneca from 1:45-10:00 p.m. at the Gignilliat Community Center, located at 621 North Townville Street, in the City of Seneca.