News Summary
Governor Henry McMaster has declared a state of emergency in South Carolina due to widespread wildfires, prompting evacuations in several areas. Over 175 fires have been reported, exacerbated by dry conditions and strong winds, with significant fires near Myrtle Beach still burning. The South Carolina Army National Guard has deployed helicopters to assist in firefighting efforts, while the Red Cross provides shelter for evacuated residents. The situation remains critical, with ongoing dry weather affecting fire activity and future weather predictions providing hope for relief.
South Carolina Declares State of Emergency Amid Widespread Wildfires
South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster announced a state of emergency on Sunday due to growing wildfires across the Carolinas and Georgia, prompting evacuations in several areas. Over 175 fires have been reported in South Carolina, exacerbated by dry conditions and strong winds, threatening communities and wildlife alike.
As of Monday afternoon, five active fires were still burning, with the most significant located near Myrtle Beach. This fire has consumed approximately 1,600 acres and was only 30% contained as of Sunday night. Evacuations have been enforced in eight neighborhoods in Horry County as a precaution against the advancing flames.
The South Carolina Army National Guard has deployed two Black Hawk helicopters to assist in battling these wildfires by dropping water on the flames. Heavy smoke in the Carolina Forest area has significantly reduced visibility, leading to road closures on Monday morning. Residents have reported seeing large flames and dense smoke, with some describing the sound of the fire as similar to a tornado.
Beyond Horry County, the fires have affected more than 4,200 acres in other regions, including Spartanburg, Union, Oconee, and Pickens counties. The Red Cross of South Carolina has provided temporary shelter for around 135 evacuated residents, with some finding refuge at the Carolina Forest Community Church, which has also supported firefighters battling the blazes.
Fortunately, no injuries or structural damage have been reported thus far, according to state officials. The emergency declaration made by Governor McMaster enables quicker access to necessary resources for first responders fighting the wildfires.
Current Situation and Forecast
Most of the 175 fires ignited over the weekend, with fewer than ten new fires reported on Sunday. There are also four active fires in North Carolina, where firefighters are engaged in combating blazes in national forests and adjacent areas. In addition, wildfires in Georgia have burned nearly 3,700 acres over the past week.
Due to the climate conditions linked to La Niña, the Carolina region is currently experiencing a drought with predictions for ongoing dry weather. However, a cold front is anticipated to bring much-needed rain to the Southeast by late Tuesday or Wednesday, potentially alleviating some of the wildfire concerns. Nonetheless, before this rainfall, the dry conditions are likely to persist.
Historical Context
The ongoing wildfire season in South Carolina typically peaks between January and mid-April, correlating with vegetation dormancy. In a related incident, a group of four individuals, including three South Carolina men and a juvenile, has been charged with negligence concerning the Table Rock Fire, which resulted in over 13,000 acres being burned. This fire was allegedly sparked on March 21 due to the improper extinguishing of cigarettes during a hike. At present, 30% of the Table Rock Fire is contained, and no injuries related to this fire have been reported. Those charged have been released on personal recognizance bonds.
The recent heavy rainfall has contributed to a reduction in fire activity in affected regions, yet the current wildfire challenges highlight the ongoing risks posed by climate conditions and human negligence in the area. As the situation develops, authorities remain focused on managing the active fires and ensuring the safety of residents.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- AP News: South Carolina Wildfire
- Wikipedia: Wildfire
- SC Daily Gazette: Wildfires Prompt Bill
- Google Search: South Carolina Wildfires
- NBC News: Cigarettes Caused Fire
- Google Scholar: South Carolina Wildfires
- ABC News: Massive Wildfire Spreads
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wildfire
- The Guardian: Carolina Wildfires Forecast
- Google News: South Carolina Wildfires
