May 18, 2025

Brush Fires Prompt Evacuations in North and South Carolina

News Summary

Brush fires in North and South Carolina have led to significant evacuations due to dangerous dry conditions. In North Carolina, a major fire has engulfed hundreds of acres with no containment reported, while a fire near Myrtle Beach in South Carolina has prompted a state of emergency. Residents have been evacuated from multiple neighborhoods as firefighting efforts continue, with risks of rekindling and structural damage being assessed closely. The situation is dynamic, with underlying drought conditions exacerbating the fire hazards.

North Carolina and South Carolina Brush Fires Prompt Evacuations and State of Emergency

Brush fires caused by dry and windy conditions have led to significant evacuations in North and South Carolina on March 2, 2025. In North Carolina, a major fire in Polk County has engulfed between 400 to 500 acres, with no containment reported as of the latest updates. Meanwhile, in South Carolina, a forest fire near Myrtle Beach has burned at least 1,600 acres, prompting the declaration of a state of emergency by Governor Henry McMaster.

Evacuations and Risk to Property

In North Carolina, authorities have ordered evacuations for residents living along U.S. Highway 176 between Tryon and Saluda. Tryon, with a population of about 1,500, and Saluda, which has fewer than 1,000 residents, are located approximately 40 miles south of Asheville. With fire conditions being critical, officials have emphasized that structures in the area could be at risk. Damage assessments are planned for the day following the evacuation order.

In South Carolina, evacuations from several neighborhoods in Carolina Forest have affected over 1,400 homes since the fires ignited. Firefighting crews are actively working to contain the blaze, which is currently reported to be 30% contained. Late Sunday afternoon, evacuations in Horry County were lifted, allowing residents to return home, but they were cautioned to remain alert for hotspots that could reignite.

Firefighting Efforts and Resources Deployed

Efforts to combat these fires include controlled burns carried out by the North Carolina Fire Service to slow down the Polk County fire. Firefighting teams, including those from the North Carolina Forest Service and local departments, have been integral to the containment efforts. The South Carolina Forestry Commission has mobilized extensive resources to address the fire threat, utilizing both air and ground support, including the deployment of two planes and a Black Hawk helicopter for water drops, alongside tractors for digging containment lines.

As of now, there are no reports of injuries or structural damage related to these wildfires, but an air quality alert has been issued for Myrtle Beach, advising residents to stay indoors due to unhealthy smoke and dust concentrations. The public has been informed that despite the lifting of certain evacuation orders, caution is advised to watch for potential rekindling of fires.

Weather Conditions and Future Risks

Underlying factors such as drought and high temperatures have contributed to the escalating fire conditions across both states. The National Weather Service had previously issued a red flag warning for critical fire weather conditions, which expired late Saturday night for western North Carolina and upstate South Carolina. Despite some forecasts indicating potential thunderstorms, limited rain is expected, which may further exacerbate fire hazards in the region.

Recent Wildfire Activity

In North Carolina, multiple wildfires have been reported, with crews working to contain blazes that have collectively burned over 400 acres across four different forests. The largest fire reported is approximately 300 acres in Uwharrie National Forest, located around 50 miles east of Charlotte. The Polk County fire was notably ignited by a downed power line along U.S. Highway 176, allowing the flames to rapidly spread up the mountain.

The situation remains dynamic, and officials are closely monitoring conditions as they continue to fight these fires and assess risks to communities. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and adhere to evacuation protocols as needed, while firefighters persist in their efforts to control the flames in both states.

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Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON

CLINTON STAFF WRITER The CLINTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREClinton.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Clinton, Laurens County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Discovery, Clinton Community Day, and performances at the Whitten Center Amphitheater. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Laurens County Historical Society, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and education that power the local economy such as Milliken & Company and Presbyterian College. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.