Multiple wildfires in the Carolinas force evacuations, burn ban issued in South Carolina
Brush fires broke out in both North Carolina and South Carolina on Saturday, prompting officials to issue evacuation orders. In Polk County, North Carolina, a fire was raging across at least 400 acres with zero containment as of late Saturday night, according to the North Carolina Fire Service. Structures were at risk, and officials planned to assess potential damage on Sunday morning.
Residents along U.S. Highway 176 between Tryon and Saluda were urged to evacuate by Polk County, as the fire was spreading rapidly and multiple fire departments were working on containment efforts. Tryon and Saluda are located approximately 40 miles south of Asheville. Displaced residents were advised to seek shelter at the Polk County Meeting Place in Columbus.
In South Carolina, Horry County Fire Rescue ordered evacuations for several neighborhoods in the Carolina Forest area, about 10 miles west of Myrtle Beach, as crews battled a wildfire. The fire rescue team stated on Facebook that they were monitoring the weather forecast and prepared to adjust their life safety and property protection plan as needed.
State Rep. Tim McGinnis mentioned on Facebook that two planes and a Blackhawk helicopter would drop water on the fire on Sunday morning, with tractors on the way to help establish containment lines. South Carolina Governor Henrey McMaster announced a statewide burning ban due to hazardous wildfire conditions, warning that anyone starting a fire would face legal consequences as firefighting crews worked to suppress multiple fires across the state.
A red flag warning issued by the National Weather Service for western North Carolina and upstate South Carolina expired late Saturday night. Red Flag warnings indicate critical fire weather conditions either occurring or imminent.
The incidents in both states underscored the importance of swift response and coordinated efforts to combat wildfires, especially during periods of heightened fire risk. Stay informed and heed evacuation orders to ensure your safety and the safety of others in wildfire-prone areas.
