Firefighters are working to contain 175 wildfires that erupted overnight across North and South Carolina, fueled by strong winds and dry conditions. The blazes have threatened homes, forced evacuations, and prompted state officials to take emergency measures.
As of Sunday, wildfires had scorched a combined 4,200 acres, with significant outbreaks reported in Horry, Spartanburg, Oconee, Union, and Pickens counties, according to the South Carolina State Fire Marshal.
One of the largest and most dangerous fires ignited in the Carolina Forest area near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. By Sunday evening, it had burned through more than 1,600 acres, posing a serious threat to the Walkers Woods and Avalon communities, the South Carolina Forest Commission reported.
Fire crews made progress throughout the day, containing about 30% of the blaze by Sunday afternoon. Authorities lifted the evacuation order later that evening, with the South Carolina Forestry Commission confirming on X:
All areas previously evacuated due to Carolina Forest fire are now able to return, per Horry County Fire Rescue.”
In response to the growing wildfire crisis, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster issued an executive order on Sunday, declaring a state of emergency to support firefighting efforts and allocate necessary resources.
“This State of Emergency ensures that our first responders, who are working tirelessly and risking their lives to protect our communities from these wildfires, have the resources they need,” McMaster stated.
To prevent further fires, McMaster also announced a statewide outdoor burning ban, which went into effect Saturday.
“That means you can and will go to jail for starting a fire outdoors in South Carolina, period,” McMaster warned in a social media post.
On Sunday, he reiterated the urgency of the situation: “Dangerous wildfire conditions require that a statewide burning ban remain in effect until further notice.”
With firefighters continuing to battle the blazes and weather conditions remaining unpredictable, authorities urge residents to stay alert and adhere to safety advisories to prevent further devastation.
