Officials in North Carolina and South Carolina issued evacuation orders after multiple wildfires broke out Saturday afternoon, rapidly spreading across the region.
North Carolina Wildfires
The North Carolina Fire Service reported a wildfire in Polk County had scorched at least 400 acres with zero containment by late Saturday night. Officials warned that structures were at risk, prompting preemptive evacuations along U.S. Highway 176 between Tryon and Saluda. Fire crews from multiple counties were dispatched to combat the blaze.
Tryon, home to approximately 1,500 residents, and Saluda, with a population under 1,000, are located about 40 miles south of Asheville, North Carolina. The region, still recovering from Hurricane Helene’s record rainfall and mudslides last year, faces renewed devastation as the wildfire spreads.
South Carolina Wildfires
In Horry County, South Carolina, firefighters evacuated residents from several communities in Carolina Forest, just 10 miles west of Myrtle Beach. The extent of the wildfire and containment levels remain unknown.
Horry County Fire Rescue stated, “Crews are continuing to work a large wildfire near Carolina Forest,” while local officials closely monitor the situation and adapt safety measures.
Emergency Response & Firefighting Efforts
South Carolina State Rep. Tim McGinnis confirmed that Black Hawk helicopters were deployed to drop water over the wildfire zones. Additionally, tractors were digging trenches to contain the flames.
To mitigate further risk, the South Carolina Forestry Commission issued a statewide burn ban after reporting over 100 ignitions by Saturday night. A red flag warning—indicating imminent or ongoing critical fire weather conditions—was in effect for western North Carolina and upstate South Carolina.
Authorities urge residents to remain alert and follow evacuation orders as fire crews battle the growing infernos.
