Firefighters across North and South Carolina are facing significant challenges as they combat wildfires fueled by dry conditions and gusty winds. Residents have been evacuates due to the spreading flames, with over 175 wildfires reported across the regions over the weekend.
On Sunday, the National Weather Service issued warnings about the heightened fire risks due to low humidity levels and critically dry fuels. The situation prompted South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster to declare a state of emergency, allowing for additional resources to be allocated to firefighting efforts. A statewide burning ban is also currently enforced.
One of the most significant fires is occurring near Carolina Forest, just west of Myrtle Beach, where flames have scorched approximately 1,600 acres. By Sunday evening, the blaze was reported to be 30 percent contained. Horry County Fire Rescue reported the evacuation of several neighborhoods as thick smoke and flames threatened homes, with video footage showing alarmed residents fleeing the area.
Thankfully, evacuees were allowed to return home later Sunday, after fire crews made progress. No injuries have been reported and no structures lost due to the wildfire, according to officials. "We are relieved to report no injuries or fatalities, and our teams are working hard to contain these blazes," said Horry County Fire Rescue officials.
Across state lines, North Carolina firefighters faced their own difficulties. The U.S. Forest Service noted multiple blazes across four national forests, with the largest fire consuming around 400 acres at Uwharrie National Forest, located about 50 miles east of Charlotte. Firefighters reported the fire to be 30 percent contained on Sunday afternoon.
Evacuations were also ordered for the towns of Tryon and Saluda as another fire spread quickly, resulting in the scorching of roughly 500 acres. Polk County Emergency Management confirmed the fire was zero percent contained as of Sunday evening.
Residents of Tryon were anxiously waiting for news about the friend patterns and conditions. A decision on whether to lift evacuation orders was anticipated to be made after controlled burns were conducted to check flames from spreading.
While progress has been made on some fronts, the firefighters continue to battle challenges, with the North Carolina Forest Service carrying out water drops and back-burning operations to combat blazes related to the Tryon fire. Local officials have warned residents to expect substantial smoke and ash fallout as operations continue.
Many communities are still feeling the effects of the drought, with February’s rain totals reported as 1.5 to 2.5 inches below average. With some areas marked as having the driest February on record, the combination of strong winds, low humidity, and warm temperatures have created dangerous conditions favoring wildfires.
Robb Ellis, meteorologist for Weather.com, provided insight about the significance of wildfires. “Wildfires are not only common in parts of the Carolinas, but are part of the natural ecosystem of the area, especially in the Sandhills and Coastal Plain,” he explained. He suggested how controlled burns are beneficial for organic growth and seed dispersal.
With firefighting efforts ramped up across both Carolinas, South Carolina’s Forestry Commission has facilitated numerous resources for crews on the front lines. Over 400 personnel from 30 different departments have joined forces with helicopters and planes making water drops to suppress flames more effectively.
Officials continue to issue warnings about the active fires and the accompanying smoke, urging residents to stay away from affected areas. Motorists were cautioned about visibility issues as heavy smoke enveloped regions around Carolina Forest, and Horry County Fire Rescue has advised avoiding the general area of Carolina Forest Boulevard altogether. International Drive is also reported to be closed, with public safety apparatus on move responding to the flames.
Despite the chaos, Horry County Schools announced they would conduct regular operational schedules, highlighting their commitment to maintain stability for the community's educational needs.
Moving forward, local emergency authorities remain vigilant as unfavorable weather increases fire danger. The National Weather Service has confirmed elevated fire threats will persist, urging residents to comply with continuing burn bans across South Carolina. Governor McMaster reiterated on social media the serious consequences of defying the ban, warning, “Violators can and will face consequences.”
With the battle against wildfires still raging on, South Carolinians and North Carolinians alike show resilience and solidarity, coming together as they face down the flames.