Firefighters fought over 170 flames in Northern and South Carolina over the weekend as dry conditions and strong winds promoted fast-moving wildfires, encouraged evacuation and sent residents indoors.
In South Carolina, more than 175 fires have been torn across the state, forcing Gov. Henry McMaster to declare a state of emergency on Sunday. The order aims to strengthen wildfire response efforts and ensure appropriate resources for firefighters. The statewide burn ban was also in effect on Tuesday.
“A careless action such as burning it on the wrong day, extinguishing it, or not staying in a fire until it completely disappears can lead to a fire and quickly threaten life and property.” I warned on monday.
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One of the biggest fires erupted in the Carolina forest area just west of Myrtle Beach. The Horry County Blaze, which began on Saturday, rapidly expanded to 1,600 acres and doubled its size overnight. By Tuesday morning it had spread to 2,059 acres, with 30% contained, according to the South Carolina Forestry Commission.
The fire forced evacuation, but many residents were able to return home. No injuries or structural losses have been reported. However, the fire risk was expected to continue until Tuesday afternoon, with gusts of winds leading to 20-25 mph.
In North Carolina, the US Forest Service reported multiple wildfires burning in four national forests. Located about 50 miles (80 km) east of Charlotte, the largest in the Uhari National Forest had burned about 400 acres (162 hectares) by Monday.
Furthermore west in Polk County, a burning fire near the town of Trion threatened the Blue Ridge Mountain community. The fire consumed 593 acres, including 63%.
“The front of the storm is approaching, and there are strong winds before and after the rain. It looks like it’s raining so the Polk County burn ban will remain in place until a significant amount of rain falls.” Polk County Emergency Management said.
The North Carolina Forest Service is deploying aircraft for water droplets and backburning operations. Officials warn that as containment efforts continue, residents nearby affected areas should expect heavy smoke. And wildfire smoke affected South Carolina’s vision, making driving tricky.
“A nearby wildfire incident will cause severe smoke to occur in Carolina’s forest areas until noon at least,” county police said. I said.
The National Weather Service cites extremely dry vegetation and low humidity as key factors that burn the flame.
The Holly County fire is believed to be “human-related,” but the investigation into the issue has not been completed. What caused the other fires remains unknown.
“To see some of our neighbor’s homes burning is something I’ve never experienced before,” said Polk County resident Philip Smith. WBTV on monday.
