South Carolina Declares State of Emergency Amid Wildfire Crisis

News Summary

South Carolina is declaring a state of emergency due to a surge in wildfires, with over 175 active fires reported across the state. The most significant wildfire is near Myrtle Beach, consuming 1,600 acres and prompting evacuation orders. As fire behavior remains elevated, authorities are implementing firefighting strategies while residents face smoky skies and road closures. Efforts continue to contain the fires as dry conditions persist, with hopes for relief from an incoming cold front.

South Carolina is facing a significant wildfire crisis as the state’s Governor Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency on Sunday due to an alarming increase in wildfires stretching across the Carolinas and Georgia. Over 175 active fires have been reported in South Carolina, fueled by exceptionally dry conditions and strong winds.

By Monday afternoon, five major fires remained active across the state. The most notable is a large blaze in Myrtle Beach, alongside two separate fire incidents in Williamsburg County and another in Beaufort County. The Horry County fire near Myrtle Beach has already consumed around 1,600 acres and remains only 30% contained as of Sunday night, leaving many in distress.

Authorities issued evacuation orders for residents in eight neighborhoods within Horry County as the dangers posed by the wildfires escalated. The Horry County fire has raised serious concerns, leading the South Carolina Army National Guard to deploy two Black Hawk helicopters for firefighting support. These helicopters are capable of dropping 600 gallons of water at a time, which has been crucial in battling these fierce blazes.

Heavy smoke from the fires has blanketed the area, resulting in low visibility and road closures, particularly in the Carolina Forest region. Local residents have reported a rapid spread of flames and heavy smoke, with some likening the scene to a tornado due to the chaotic nature of the fire’s behavior.

In addition to the fire in Horry County, fires have impacted more than 4,200 acres in Spartanburg, Union, Oconee, and Pickens counties, where containment efforts are actively underway. The Red Cross has established a shelter at a county recreation center that housed about 135 residents before its closure on Monday morning. Moreover, Carolina Forest Community Church has stepped in to provide support for those affected by the disaster as well as the firefighters working tirelessly to control the blazes.

Countless first responders have been commended for their bravery and vigilance in protecting the communities. Approximately 410 personnel and at least 128 fire apparatuses have been involved in these firefighting efforts, yet there have been no reported injuries or destroyed structures amidst the chaos.

Despite the high number of fires ignited over the weekend, the situation appeared to stabilize slightly on Sunday, with fewer than ten new fires reported. In neighboring North Carolina, four active fires were reported, especially in national forests, where nearly 500 acres have burned collectively. The North Carolina Croatan, Nantahala, Uwharrie, and Pisgah national forests have all seen fire activity as well.

As fire behavior continues to be assessed as elevated, this is largely attributed to dry weather conditions, limited rainfall, and low humidity. Fortunately, a cold front is anticipated to bring rain by Tuesday, which could provide some much-needed relief. However, the drought-like conditions exacerbated by a high-pressure system that has forced warm, dry air into the region continue to pose risks. The Georgia Forestry Commission indicated there are at least six active fires in Georgia, with nearly 3,700 acres affected within the past week, and Tennessee has reported four minor wildfires that were mostly contained early Monday.

The National Weather Service has indicated that La Niña weather patterns are responsible for warmer and drier winters in the Carolinas, which adds complications to wildfire conditions. Residents have reported seeing a smoky orange sky from the flames near Myrtle Beach, which has sparked a social media response.

To mitigate future fire risks, local authorities are implementing various firefighting strategies, including creating fire breaks and managing controlled burns in fire-prone neighborhoods. Communities within the area are encouraged to adopt fire mitigation strategies proactively. In an effort to improve public safety, State Representative Tim McGinnis has proposed new legislation reinforcing penalties for violating burning bans, aiming to curb dangerous behavior that could lead to wildfires.

As the situation unfolds, ongoing efforts are directed towards containment and protection of communities amidst what remains a critical wildfire crisis in the Carolinas.

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