A devastating wildfire in South Carolina has forced mass evacuations as the blaze rapidly spreads, with over 1,200 acres already engulfed. Residents are urged to move quickly if ordered to evacuate, with no structures caught on fire and no injuries reported.
South Carolina Wildfire Grows to 1,200 Acres
Evacuations Underway in Horry County
HORRY COUNTY, S.C. — A wildfire broke out in the Carolina Forest in Horry County, South Carolina, prompting evacuations for multiple neighborhoods. The fire has grown to an estimated ‘1,200 acres’ , with dozens of fire agencies from across the Carolinas joining local crews to combat the blaze.
The Carolina Forest wildfire was a large and destructive fire that occurred in Horry County, South Carolina, in 2009.
The fire burned over 14,000 acres of land, forcing the evacuation of thousands of residents.
It was one of the largest wildfires in state history, with flames reaching up to 100 feet high.
The cause of the fire was a lightning strike, and it took firefighters several days to bring it under control.
The blaze caused significant damage to homes and infrastructure, resulting in millions of dollars in losses.
Firefighters Battle Against Sweeping Wildfire
More than 50 people have checked into a Red Cross shelter at the Carolina Forest Recreation Center as officials work against the spreading wildfire. Residents are urged to move quickly if told to evacuate, with no structures having caught fire and no injuries reported as of early Sunday morning.
Evacuation Orders Issued for Multiple Neighborhoods
Around 11:50 p.m. Saturday, officials announced evacuations for the Indigo Bay, The Farm, and Summerlyn neighborhoods of Carolina Forest. Earlier in the evening, evacuation orders were lifted in some areas despite visible flames on the horizon. However, several other neighborhoods remained under evacuation as the fire continued to spread.
Community Rallies Around Displaced Residents
Several local businesses have offered services to those displaced by the wildfire. VCA Palmetto Animal Hospital is providing free boarding for pets, while Visit Myrtle Beach is offering discounted rates at Hotel Blue and Landmark Resort for residents who provide proof of residence within Carolina Forest.
Statewide Burn Ban Implemented
The South Carolina Forestry Commission has implemented a statewide burn ban in response to the wildfire. The agency, along with state Department of Natural Resources, North Myrtle Beach Fire Rescue, Horry County Fire Rescue, and Horry County police are among those responding to the incident.
The South Carolina Forestry Commission is a state agency responsible for managing and conserving the state's forests.
Established in 1925, the commission aims to promote 'sustainable forest practices,' provide technical assistance to landowners, and protect natural resources.
With over 13 million acres of forestland, South Carolina ranks among the top states in timber production.
The commission employs foresters, biologists, and other experts to monitor forest health, prevent wildfires, and develop reforestation plans.
