South Carolina Declares State of Emergency Due to Wildfires

News Summary

South Carolina has declared a state of emergency as wildfires devastate thousands of acres across the region. With over 175 fires reported, the situation remains critical. A significant blaze near Myrtle Beach has prompted evacuations in affected neighborhoods. The South Carolina Army National Guard has deployed helicopters for firefighting efforts as smoke has caused road closures and poor visibility. Although some residents have returned home, authorities stress ongoing vigilance as dry conditions persist, and more rains are expected to ease the threat.

South Carolina has declared a state of emergency as wildfires continue to ravage thousands of acres across the Southeast, particularly impacting areas within the Carolinas and Georgia. Governor Henry McMaster made the emergency declaration in response to the escalating situation caused by more than 175 reported fires in South Carolina, which were fueled by dry conditions and gusty winds.

As of Monday afternoon, five active fires were reported, with a significant fire located near Myrtle Beach having burned approximately 1,600 acres and achieved only 30% containment by Sunday night. The fire’s intensity led to evacuation orders for eight neighborhoods in Horry County as multiple blazes spread throughout the region, prompting concerns for public safety and property.

The South Carolina Army National Guard responded by deploying Black Hawk helicopters to assist in firefighting efforts, employing aerial water drops to combat the flames. Heavy smoke has caused low visibility, resulting in road closures, particularly in the Carolina Forest area, where residents faced dramatic scenes of raging flames and thick black smoke.

Approximately 135 evacuees found temporary shelter in a local recreation center, which has since been closed. The Carolina Forest Community Church also provided refuge for residents and firefighters engaged in battling the wildfires. In total, around 410 personnel and 128 fire apparatuses have been involved in the firefighting efforts across the state. Fortunately, no injuries or destroyed structures have been reported thus far.

By early Sunday evening, some evacuated residents were permitted to return to their homes as containment efforts progressed. The emergency declaration has allowed for expedited access to critical resources for first responders working tirelessly to manage the fires. Most of the weekend’s fires were reported on Saturday, with fewer than ten new incidents documented on Sunday, suggesting a momentary respite in active firefighting efforts.

The current wildfire season in the Carolinas has reached its peak, with fires also affecting over 4,200 acres across Spartanburg, Union, Oconee, and Pickens counties. In addition to South Carolina’s challenges, North Carolina is grappling with four active fires, which have burned nearly 500 acres in national forests. Georgia is facing its own wildfire situation with at least six active fires consuming approximately 3,700 acres in the past week. Tennessee has also reported four small active wildfires, all of which were contained by early Monday.

Areas throughout the Carolinas are currently experiencing moderate to severe drought conditions, exacerbating the risk of wildfires. A high-pressure system has contributed to warm temperatures and low humidity, creating ideal conditions for fire spread. However, rain is expected to arrive late Tuesday into Wednesday, potentially alleviating some of the dryness that has intensified fire risks. Forecasters advise that elevated fire risks will persist due to the continuing presence of dry fuels and ongoing low humidity in the region.

The swift actions taken by state officials and firefighting teams underscore the urgent need to combat wildfires, especially during this peak season. As conditions evolve, residents are urged to remain vigilant and prepared for further developments in the ongoing situation.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Associated Press: Wildfires in the Carolinas
• Wikipedia: Wildfire
• South Carolina Daily Gazette: Wildfires and Legislation
• Google Search: South Carolina wildfires
• ABC News: North Carolina Wildfires
• Google Scholar: Wildfires North Carolina
• USA Today: Wildfire Containment Updates
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Wildfires
• News Observer: North Carolina Wildfire News
• Google News: North Carolina wildfires