Wildfires Ravage Carolinas, Prompting Evacuations and State of Emergency

Wildfires Ravage Carolinas, Prompting Evacuations and State of Emergency

Across North and South Carolina, firefighters have been battling over 170 blazes fueled by dry conditions and strong winds. The fast-moving wildfires have forced evacuations and sent residents indoors, leaving a trail of devastation in their wake.

In South Carolina, the situation is particularly dire, with over 175 fires raging across the state. Governor Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency on Sunday to bolster wildfire response efforts and ensure adequate resources for firefighters. A statewide burning ban remains in effect.

"Careless behaviors can result in a fire escaping and becoming a dangerous wildfire that quickly threatens lives and property," warned North Carolina Forest Service Assistant Commissioner and State Forester Greg Hicks.

One of the largest fires erupted in the Carolina Forest area, just west of Myrtle Beach. The Horry County blaze, which started Saturday, rapidly expanded to 1,600 acres, doubling in size overnight. By Tuesday morning, it had spread across 2,059 acres and was 30 percent contained. While evacuations were ordered, many residents have been able to return home. No injuries or structural losses have been reported. However, fire danger is expected to continue, bringing gusts between 20 and 25mph.

In North Carolina, the U.S. Forest Service reported multiple wildfires burning across four national forests. The largest, in Uwharrie National Forest, located about 50 miles east of Charlotte, had burned approximately more than 400 acres by Monday.

Further west, in Polk County, a brush fire near the town of Tryon threatened communities in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The fire had consumed 593 acres and was 63 percent contained. "There is a storm front approaching and there will be high winds before and after the rain," said Polk County Emergency Management. "The burn ban for Polk County will remain in place, until there is a significant amount of rain."

The North Carolina Forest Service has deployed aircraft for water drops and back-burning operations. Officials warn that residents near affected areas should expect heavy smoke as containment efforts continue. Wildfire smoke is also impacting visibility in South Carolina, making driving hazardous.

The National Weather Service has cited critically dry vegetation and low humidity as key factors fueling the blazes. The cause of the Horry County fire is believed to be human-caused, but the investigation is ongoing. The cause of the other fires remains unclear.

"To watch some of our neighbor's houses catch on fire is something I've never experienced before," Polk County resident Phillip Smith told WBTV on Monday.