Firefighters are battling huge blazes that began tearing through North and South Carolina over the weekend, including an enormous fire near Myrtle Beach that doubled in size overnight on Saturday.
Over 175 blazes were recorded in South Carolina over the weekend covering 17 square kilometers. One blaze near Carolina Forest, a community just west of the tourist spot in Horry County, stretched across 1,600 acres and was 30 percent contained as of Sunday evening, according to the South Carolina Forestry Commission.
Video showed firefighters battling flames as the fire neared houses in the area. Later on Sunday, officials announced that the residents of all neighborhoods previously evacuated due to the Carolina Forest wildfire were able to return home.
South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency “to further support wildfire response efforts across the state” and ensure first responders “continue to have the resources they need.”
In North Carolina, a brush fire in the mountains threatened communities in the Blue Ridge Mountains about 40 miles south of Asheville. The fire had burned between 400 and 500 acres and was zero percent contained as of Sunday afternoon, according to Polk County Emergency Management.
Key Points
- Horry County Schools to return on Monday
- Evacuated residents allowed to return home
- Myrtle Beach fire grew to 1,600 acres at peak
- In pictures: Firefighters tackle blazes in the Carolinas
- NWS warns of increased fire danger
Report: Crews battle wildfires in North and South Carolina amid dry conditions and gusty winds
12:29 , Alex CroftCrews battled wildfires in North and South Carolina on Sunday amid dry conditions and gusty winds and evacuations were ordered in some areas.
The National Weather Service warned of increased fire danger in the region due to a combination of critically dry fuels and very low relative humidity.
In South Carolina, Gov. Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency on Sunday to support the wildfire response effort, and a statewide burning ban remained in effect.
Read the full report here:
Crews battle wildfires in North and South Carolina amid dry conditions and gusty winds
Evacuated residents allowed to return home
12:01 , Alex CroftEvacuated residents in the Carolina Forest area of Myrtle Beach were allowed to return home on Sunday afternoon, though were warned to be vigilant.
As of 4:25 p.m., residents of all neighborhoods were given the go ahead to go home.
Representative of South Carolina District 56 Tim McGinnis said no one was injured or killed and no structures have been lost.
A burn ban was issued in Horry County after several fires on Thursday.
Small North Carolina town under evacuation orders
11:30 , Alex CroftResidents of the small town of Tryon in North Carolina were urged to evacuate on Sunday as a blaze spreads rapidly in the area.
The fire has burned around 500 acres as of late and is at zero per cent containment, the Polk County Emergency Management/Fire Marshal's office said late on Sunday.
The North Carolina Forest Service was conducting water drops and back-burning operations on the ground, and area residents should expect a lot of smoke during those operations, officials added.
NWS warns of increased fire danger on Monday
11:00 , Alex CroftThe National Weather Service’s West Columbia branch has warned that the “elevated fire danger” will continue into Monday.
“The threat of elevated fire danger continues today due to a combination of dry fuels & low humidity,” the NWS wrote on X.
“The SCFC [South Carolina Forestry Commission] statewide burn ban prohibits all outdoor burning, including yard debris burning, prescribed burning and campfires in all unincorporated areas of the state UFN.”
The threat of elevated fire danger continues today due to a combination of dry fuels & low humidity. The SCFC statewide burn ban prohibits all outdoor burning, including yard debris burning, prescribed burning and campfires in all unincorporated areas of the state UFN. pic.twitter.com/ekm037pH2B
— NWS Columbia (@NWSColumbia) March 3, 2025
Carolina wildfire map: North and South Carolina enter state of emergency as residents evacuated
10:31 , Alex CroftFirefighters battled over 170 blazes across North and South Carolina over the weekend as dry conditions and strong winds fuelled fast-moving wildfires, prompting evacuations and emergency declarations.
In South Carolina, more than 175 fires have scorched 6.6sqm (17sqkm), forcing Governor Henry McMaster to declare a state of emergency on Sunday. The order aims to bolster wildfire response efforts and ensure adequate resources for firefighters. A statewide burning ban also remains in effect.
One of the largest fires erupted in the Carolina Forest area, just west of Myrtle Beach. The blaze, which started Saturday, rapidly expanded to 1,600 acres, doubling in size overnight. By Sunday evening, it was 30 per cent contained, according to the South Carolina Forestry Commission.
Stuti Mishra reports:
Carolina wildfire map: North and South Carolina enter state of emergency
South Carolina governor declares state of emergency
10:00 , Mike BediganSouth Carolina Governor Henry McMaster issued an executive order on Sunday declaring a state of emergency to support ongoing response to wildfires ravaging his state.
"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 said in a statement on X.
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.
— Gov. Henry McMaster (@henrymcmaster) March 2, 2025
Burn ban in effect through Monday
09:31 , Stuti MishraA state-wide burn ban is now in effect across South Carolina as fire danger remains high due to dry conditions and low humidity.
The National Weather Service has issued a Fire Danger Statement for parts of Georgia and South Carolina, warning of an increased wildfire risk through 8pm Monday.
The South Carolina Forestry Commission has prohibited all outdoor burning until further notice. Officials warn that with dry vegetation and low humidity, even small sparks could lead to fast-spreading wildfires. Residents are urged to avoid campfires, debris burning, and any outdoor flames that could put homes and communities at risk.
In Georgia, residents should check with local authorities before engaging in any burning activities. Even if burning is permitted, extreme caution is advised.
South Carolina National Guard joins fight against fires
09:00 , Gustaf KilanderU.S. Army Soldiers with Company A, 111th General Support Aviation Battalion, 59 Aviation Troop Command, South Carolina Army National Guard prepared two Blackhawk Helicopters to assist the South Carolina Forestry Commission and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources… pic.twitter.com/O9iUTUT83t
— SC National Guard (@SCNationalGuard) March 2, 2025
U.S. Army Soldiers with Company A, 1-111th General Support Aviation Battalion, 59th Aviation Troop Command, South Carolina National Guard mobilized three UH-60 Blackhawk Helicopters in support of the South Carolina Forestry Commission and the South Carolina Department of Natural… pic.twitter.com/ELbtOxktNi
— SC National Guard (@SCNationalGuard) March 3, 2025
Photos: Crews work to contain fire
08:38 , Stuti Mishra
Meterologist shares update on Carolina Forest fire
08:00 , Gustaf Kilander3/2/25 8:15 PM - @hcfirerescue just posted an update on the on-going fire in Carolina Forest. Here are some highlights.
— Scotty Powell (@ScottyPowellWX) March 3, 2025
-Re-entry has been allowed for all locations that had been asked to evacuate over the last 24-36 hours.
- 30% containment on the Covington Rd fire.… pic.twitter.com/YP5BdUaDyT
North Carolina Forest Service conducting helicopter water drops
07:00 , APIn North Carolina, the U.S. Forest Service said fire crews were working to contain multiple wildfires burning on more than 400 acres (161.87 hectares) in four forests across the state on Sunday. The largest, about 300 acres (121.41 hectares), was at Uwharrie National Forest, about 50 miles (80.47 kilometers) east of Charlotte.
The small southwestern town of Tryon in Polk County, North Carolina, urged some residents to evacuate Saturday as a fire spread rapidly there. On Sunday, officials said those evacuations remained in effect.
That fire was burning about 400 acres (161.87 hectares) on Sunday afternoon, with zero percent containment, according to the Polk County Emergency Management/Fire Marshal's office. The North Carolina Forest Service was conducting helicopter water drops and back-burning operations on the ground, and area residents should expect a lot of smoke during those operations, officials said.
Crews work to contain fire in Carolina Forest west of Myrtle Beach
06:00 , APCrews worked to contain a fire in the Carolina Forest area west of the coastal resort city of Myrtle Beach, where residents were ordered to evacuate several neighborhoods, according to Horry County Fire Rescue.
The South Carolina Forestry Commission estimated Sunday afternoon that the blaze was burning about 1.9 square miles (4.9 square kilometers) with zero percent containment. No structures had succumbed to the blaze and no injuries had been reported as of Sunday morning, officials said.
The 410 personnel involved in the effort were expected to remain until the fire was contained, county fire officials said. Evacuations were expected to remain in place Sunday and officials warned residents in the Carolina Forest area to be prepared with go-bags and emergency plans if more evacuations were called in their neighborhoods.
Watch as forest fire threatens homes in Carolina Forest
05:31 , Gustaf KilanderState of wildfires burning in North Caroilna
04:50 , Stuti MishraFire crews in North Carolina are battling multiple wildfires across four national forests, with the largest burning in Uwharrie National Forest, about 50 miles (80km) east of Charlotte.
The US Forest Service said the 400-acre (162-hectare) fire, reached about one-third containment by Sunday afternoon.
Meanwhile, in Polk County, the small town of Tryon remains under evacuation orders as a separate wildfire continues to spread.
The blaze, which has scorched 500 acres (202 hectares) with zero containment, prompted officials to urge some residents to leave on Saturday.
Blackthorn Drive Fire 100% contained
04:18 , Stuti MishraOne of two Carolina Forest area wildfires that burned roughly 2,000 acres over the weekend has been fully contained.
According to the South Carolina Forest Commission, the Blackthorn Drive Fire, the smaller of the two. is 100 per cent contained.
Crews battle wildfires in North and South Carolina amid dry conditions and gusty winds
04:00 , APCrews battled wildfires in North and South Carolina on Sunday amid dry conditions and gusty winds and evacuations were ordered in some areas.
The National Weather Service warned of increased fire danger in the region due to a combination of critically dry fuels and very low relative humidity.
In South Carolina, Gov. Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency on Sunday to support the wildfire response effort, and a statewide burning ban remained in effect.
Read more:
Crews battle wildfires in North and South Carolina amid dry conditions and gusty winds
Watch: Wildfire spreads in Myrtle Beach, causing evacuations
03:00 , Mike BediganHorry County Schools to return on Monday
02:30 , Mike BediganHorry County Schools will run on a regular schedule on Monday based on re-entry protocols into several Carolina Forest neighborhoods, district officials have said.
“We recognize that many students, their families and staff may still be affected by the wildfires. We are committed to being flexible and working with each individual on a case-by-case basis tomorrow,” spokeswoman Lisa Bourcier said in a statement.
“If you or your family are experiencing challenges due to the fires, we encourage you to reach out to your school to discuss your specific circumstances and needs.”
Evacuated residents allowed to return home
02:00 , Mike BediganEvacuated residents in the Carolina Forest area of Myrtle Beach were allowed to return home on Sunday afternoon, though were warned to be vigilant.
As of 4:25 p.m., residents of all neighborhoods were given the go ahead to go home.
Representative of South Carolina District 56 Tim McGinnis said no one was injured or killed and no structures have been lost.
A burn ban was issued in Horry County after several fires on Thursday.
Myrtle Beach fire grew to 1,600 acres at peak
01:30 , Mike BediganAt its largest the California Forest wildfire grew to more than 1,600 acres, the South Carolina Forestry Commission reported on its official tracking site. As of 5.30 p.m. it was 30 percent contained.
Throughout much of Sunday officials estimated that the size of the blaze was 1,200 acres.
In pictures: Firefighters tackle blazes in the Carolinas
01:00 , Mike Bedigan
NWS warns of increased fire danger
00:30 , Mike BediganThe National Weather Service warned of increased fire danger in the region due to a combination of critically dry fuels and very low relative humidity.
The combination of dry fuels & low humidity continues concerns for dangerous fire behavior today. The SCFC has issued a statewide burn ban which prohibits all outdoor burning, including yard debris burning, prescribed burning and campfires in all unincorporated areas of the state pic.twitter.com/wrx329dH0L
— NWS Columbia (@NWSColumbia) March 2, 2025
No injuries reported despite large areas of damage
00:00 , Mike BediganThe South Carolina Forestry Commission estimated on Sunday afternoon that the blaze was burning about 1.9 square miles with zero percent containment.
No structures had succumbed to the blaze and no injuries had been reported as of Sunday morning, officials said.
The 410 personnel involved in the effort were expected to remain until the fire was contained, county fire officials said.
Evacuations are expected to remain in place and officials warned residents in the Carolina Forest area to be prepared with go-bags and emergency plans if more evacuations were called in their neighborhoods.
Fires burning in North Carolina mountains
Sunday 2 March 2025 23:30 , Mike BediganIn North Carolina, the U.S. Forest Service said fire crews were working to contain multiple wildfires burning on more than 400 acres in four forests across the state on Sunday. The largest, about 300 acres, was at Uwharrie National Forest, about 50 miles east of Charlotte.
A brush fire in the Blue Ridge mountains threatened Tryon and Saluda, small communities about 40 miles south of Asheville.
The fire burned between 400 and 500 acres and was zero percent contained as of Sunday afternoon, according to Polk County Emergency Management.
Evacuations were ordered on Saturday and remained in place on Sunday in Tryon, which has a population of about 1,500.
According to Saluda Fire and Rescue, the fire was caused by a downed power line and quickly spread up a mountain, threatening several buildings.
South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster issued an executive order on Sunday declaring a state of emergency to support ongoing response to wildfires ravaging his state.
"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 said in a statement on X.
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.
— Gov. Henry McMaster (@henrymcmaster) March 2, 2025
Shocking video from showed firefighters battling flames in the California Forest, S.C.
Sunday 2 March 2025 22:40 , Mike BediganShocking video from showed firefighters battling flames in the California Forest area of South Carolina, as the fire neared houses in the area.
Air quality alert issued in North Carolina
08:41 , Stuti MishraThe North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality has issued a Code Orange Air Quality Alert for parts of North Carolina, warning residents about unhealthy air conditions due to wildfire smoke.
The alert remains in effect in Stanly and Montgomery counties until midnight Monday night, with fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels expected to remain elevated.
A Code Orange alert means that air pollution levels may be unhealthy for sensitive groups, including children, the elderly and the vulnerable.
The increased particulate matter is due to wildfires burning across North Carolina, which have sent smoke drifting into surrounding areas. Dry weather and strong winds have further contributed to deteriorating air quality, making conditions more hazardous.
Firefighters tackle blazes in the Carolinas
Sunday 2 March 2025 22:19 , Mike BediganFirefighters have been battling over 150 blazes in North and South Carolina throughout the weekend, including an enormous fire near to Myrtle Beach that doubled in size overnight on Saturday.
The blaze near Carolina Forest, a community just west of the tourist spot in Horry County, stretched across 1,200 acres. As of Sunday afternoon it was zero percent contained, according to the South Carolina Forestry Commission.
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