Lighter winds on Monday provided a much-needed respite for firefighters battling wildfires in South Carolina and North Carolina. Over the weekend, the raging fires had caused evacuations and threatened hundreds of homes, but the dedicated efforts of hundreds of firefighters from across the state managed to contain the blaze and prevent any homes from being destroyed.
The fire, which burned 6.5 square kilometers (2.5 square miles), was the largest in the area since the devastating 2009 wildfire that caused $42 million in damage and destroyed 75 homes. The situation was dire, with social media flooded with videos of orange skies and flames engulfing pine trees just yards away. However, the bravery and hard work of the firefighters paid off, and no homes were lost to the fire.
Despite the success in containing the fire, the danger was far from over. In response, officials in both South Carolina and North Carolina have implemented burn bans, prohibiting all outdoor fires, including burning yard debris and campfires. Residents have been urged to call 911 if they witness anyone starting a fire outdoors. Governor Henry McMaster emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating on social media, “You can and will go to jail for starting a fire outdoors in South Carolina. Period.”
In western North Carolina, burn bans were also in place, and some residents in Polk County remained evacuated from their homes as fire crews worked to contain a 480-acre (190-hectare) fire, which was about 30% contained as of Monday morning. The county, which was on the outskirts of the area hit hard by Hurricane Helene last year, is at an increased risk of wildfires due to fallen trees that have not been cleared.
In eastern North Carolina, nearly 80 small wildfires were reported in Robeson County, with 15 structures damaged, although the specific types of buildings were not disclosed by emergency officials. The North Carolina Forest Service reported over 200 wildfires across the state on Monday, but the majority of them were small and not threatening any structures.
Aside from the immediate danger posed by the fires, officials also warned of poor air quality due to the smoke. The dry winter weather, combined with high winds from a cold front passing through the area, has increased the risk of wildfires. This is especially true in the Myrtle Beach area, which is known for its dangerous wildfires due to the presence of peat, a highly flammable material formed from decomposing vegetation.
The rapid growth of the population in Horry County, which has doubled to 400,000 people in the past 25 years, has only added to the risk of wildfires. Many newcomers have moved into neighborhoods built near the Carolina Bays, where peat and flammable vegetation are abundant. These bays have a history of fires, and the dry, windy conditions over the weekend only exacerbated the situation.
At this time, officials have not disclosed the cause of any of the fires. However, it is evident that the combination of dry weather, high winds, and flammable vegetation has created a dangerous situation in both South Carolina and North Carolina. The tireless efforts of the firefighters have been crucial in containing the fires and protecting homes and communities.
As we continue to battle these wildfires, it is important for all residents to follow the burn bans and exercise caution when it comes to fire. Let us all work together to keep our communities safe and support our brave firefighters who are risking their lives to protect us. Stay informed and stay safe.
