Devastating wildfires swept through North and South Carolina, threatening communities and forcing evacuations across multiple counties.
According to Fox News, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency on Sunday as firefighters battled nearly 200 wildfires that have scorched approximately 5,000 acres across the Carolinas.
The fires, fueled by low relative humidity and strong winds, have prompted immediate action from state authorities and emergency responders. The South Carolina Forestry Commission reports that 170 fires have erupted across the state, with the largest blaze consuming 1,200 acres in the Carolina Forest community near Myrtle Beach.
Military and emergency response teams join forces
The South Carolina Army National Guard has deployed two Black Hawk helicopters to assist with containment efforts. These military aircraft, equipped with specialized water buckets capable of carrying 600 gallons each, provide crucial aerial support to ground crews.
More than 400 firefighters, utilizing 127 fire apparatus, are working tirelessly to contain the flames in Horry County. Despite the intensity of the fires, no structures have been damaged, and no injuries have been reported as of Sunday morning.
The South Carolina Forestry Commission has implemented a statewide burning ban for all unincorporated areas. This prohibition encompasses all outdoor burning activities, including yard debris disposal, prescribed burns, and campfires.
North Carolina faces mountain wildfire crisis
The wildfire emergency extends into North Carolina, where firefighters are battling a significant blaze in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Located approximately 40 miles south of Asheville, the fire has consumed between 400 and 500 acres.
The Melrose Fire, which started from a downed power line, has rapidly spread through the Saluda and Tryon communities. North Carolina Emergency Management has initiated air operations to combat the growing threat.
Emergency responders face challenging conditions as they work to protect structures and contain the spreading flames. The fire's location in mountainous terrain presented additional obstacles for firefighting efforts.
Governor McMaster's emergency response measures
South Carolina's governor emphasized the severity of the situation through social media. McMaster stated:
I have declared a State of Emergency to further support wildfire response efforts across the state and ensure our first responders continue to have the resources they need. A statewide outdoor burning ban remains in effect—violators will be prosecuted. Please stay informed.
The emergency declaration enables the state to access additional resources and coordinate response efforts more effectively. Local authorities are working closely with state agencies to manage evacuation procedures and protect affected communities.
Current status and ongoing efforts
Wildfires continue to threaten both North and South Carolina as emergency teams work to contain multiple blazes across the region. The largest fire in South Carolina's Carolina Forest area remains 0% contained, while firefighting efforts intensify with support from military and civilian emergency response teams.
The combination of low humidity, dry conditions, and high winds has created dangerous fire conditions throughout the Carolinas. State and local authorities maintain strict burning bans and urge residents to remain vigilant as firefighters work to protect communities and contain the spreading flames.
