Firefighters in the Carolinas are facing challenging conditions as they battle wildfires that have spread rapidly due to dry, windy weather. In South Carolina, the Carolina Forest Fire near Myrtle Beach has doubled in size to 1,200 acres and remains 0% contained. Another fire on Blackthorn Drive is 80% contained as of Sunday afternoon.
State officials have issued a burn ban and declared a state of emergency to support firefighting efforts. Over 175 wildfires are currently burning across 4,200 acres in South Carolina, posing a significant threat to residents and structures.
In western North Carolina, a brush fire caused by a fallen power line has spread quickly, threatening homes and structures near Tryon and Saluda. The fire, which is between 400 and 500 acres, remains uncontained as multiple fire departments work to contain it.
Residents in affected areas have been ordered to evacuate, and fire crews are working diligently to protect homes and reduce fire fuels. Despite milder winds and cooler temperatures on Sunday, the dry air and vegetation continue to fuel the wildfires, keeping the danger level high.
Weather conditions are expected to improve slightly, with winds diminishing and temperatures dropping overnight. By Tuesday, temperatures are forecasted to warm up, bringing more humid air to the region.
Both South Carolina and North Carolina see thousands of wildfires each year, burning tens of thousands of acres. The current wildfires serve as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by dry conditions and the importance of preparedness and swift response to protect lives and property.
