May 11, 2025

Severe Wildfire Crisis in South Carolina

News Summary

South Carolina faces a significant wildfire crisis as Governor Henry McMaster declares a state of emergency. Over 175 wildfires are reported, fueled by dry conditions and a severe drought. The situation escalates with evacuations in Horry County and ongoing firefighting efforts involving the National Guard’s helicopters. Smoke impacts visibility, leading to road closures. Nearby regions in North Carolina and Georgia face similar conditions. Authorities remain vigilant as dry vegetation and hotspots pose ongoing risks. Communities are urged to stay informed and adhere to evacuation orders.

South Carolina is facing a severe wildfire crisis as Governor Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency in response to numerous fires affecting the Carolinas and Georgia. As of Sunday, more than 175 wildfires have been reported statewide, exacerbated by dry conditions, gusty winds, and a significant drought affecting the region. This crisis has prompted evacuations in multiple neighborhoods and mobilized extensive firefighting efforts to combat the advancing flames.

As of Monday afternoon, five active wildfires continue to threaten over 1,600 acres in Horry County, with only 30% of the fires contained. In response to the growing danger, eight neighborhoods in Horry County have been evacuated. The South Carolina Army National Guard has deployed two Black Hawk helicopters to assist in water drops on the most critical fires, particularly one significant blaze near Myrtle Beach and others in Williamsburg and Beaufort Counties.

Residents in the Carolina Forest area are experiencing heavy smoke, which has severely impacted visibility and led to road closures. Fortunately, the South Carolina Forestry Commission has reported that no injuries or major structural damage have occurred as a result of the wildfires. Approximately 410 firefighting personnel, supported by at least 128 fire apparatuses, have been actively engaged in firefighting measures, with the majority of wildfires reported occurring over the weekend.

Regional Impact

In North Carolina, officials reported four active fires on Monday, with minimal containment achieved. Firefighting efforts are ongoing. In Georgia, at least six active fires are also present statewide, resulting in the burning of approximately 3,700 acres within the past week. The convergence of these events highlights a regional crisis, intensified by prevalent drought conditions. Meteorological forecasts predict that moderate and severe drought will persist, increasing fire risks until anticipated rainfall arrives on Tuesday.

Fire Causes and Recent Events

One of the most notable blazes, the Table Rock fire, originated from improper disposal of cigarettes by four teenagers and has already consumed more than 13,000 acres. The teenagers face misdemeanor charges for negligently allowing the fire to spread. Although recent rainfall has reduced fire activity somewhat, authorities remain vigilant about the ongoing risks posed by dry vegetation and underlying hotspots that have caused flare-ups, particularly in the Covington Drive wildfire area near Myrtle Beach, which has been ongoing since March 1.

Local residents are grappling with the repercussions of the wildfires, including damage to homes and health issues related to smoke exposure. These wildfires underscore challenges posed by the accumulation of dry fuel from last year’s hurricanes, which have contributed to the heightened fire behavior observed recently. March has seen firefighters engaged in nearly 400 wildfires, with historical data indicating that April typically marks the peak month for fire activity in the regions impacted by these wildfires.

As communities brace for potential further outbreaks and continued firefighting efforts, the situation remains dynamic and evolving. Residents are urged to stay informed about developments, heed evacuation orders, and remain vigilant against the fire threat as conditions continue to fluctuate.

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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.