Firefighters in North and South Carolina are battling multiple wildfires, forcing evacuations and leading to a state of emergency declaration in parts of South Carolina. The fires, fueled by dry weather, strong winds, and high temperatures, have quickly spread across forests and residential areas, prompting urgent firefighting efforts.The largest wildfire in the region has already burned 1,200 acres near Myrtle Beach, while North Carolina is dealing with multiple blazes in different forests. Emergency crews are working to contain the fires, but officials warn that weather conditions could worsen the situation in the coming days.
 

South Carolina: State of Emergency Declared Amid Rising Wildfire Threat

In South Carolina, officials have reported more than 175 active wildfires, covering approximately 6.6 square miles (17 square kilometers). Governor Henry McMaster has declared a state of emergency to mobilize resources for fire containment efforts.The fire near Carolina Forest, west of Myrtle Beach, led to evacuation orders for several neighborhoods as smoke and flames approached homes. Horry County Fire Rescue confirmed that the fire had burned 2.5 square miles (6.5 square kilometers) but was 30% contained by Sunday evening.The South Carolina Forestry Commission imposed a statewide burn ban, which will remain in effect indefinitely to prevent additional fires. Firefighters have so far prevented structural damage, and no injuries have been reported.
 

North Carolina: Fire Crews Battle Blazes Across Four National Forests

In North Carolina, fire crews from the US Forest Service are working to contain multiple wildfires across four national forests. The most severe fire is burning in Uwharrie National Forest, located about 50 miles (80 kilometers) east of Charlotte. This fire has consumed 400 acres (162 hectares), and firefighters have managed to contain one-third of the blaze.Meanwhile, in Polk County, a fast-moving fire near the town of Tryon has burned about 500 acres (202 hectares), forcing authorities to order evacuations. Officials expect to reassess evacuation orders after intentional burns are set to contain the fire.The North Carolina Forest Service is using water drops and controlled burns to stop the fires from spreading further. Residents in affected areas have been advised to prepare for reduced air quality due to heavy smoke.
 

Firefighting Efforts and Weather Risks

The US National Weather Service has warned that critically dry fuels and very low humidity are increasing the risk of wildfires across the region. Firefighters are struggling to contain flames in difficult terrain, and officials caution that shifting winds could worsen fire conditions in the coming days.These fires come just a month after the devastating Los Angeles wildfires, which are estimated to be the costliest in US history, with damages reaching $35 billion.As firefighters continue battling the blazes, authorities urge residents in fire-prone areas to stay alert, follow evacuation orders, and avoid outdoor burning. Officials are closely monitoring the situation and will deploy additional resources if conditions worsen.