South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency as wildfires ravaged the state, burning approximately 1,200 acres and affecting another 3,000. Over 175 wildfires were reported in areas including Horry, Spartanburg, Union, Oconee, and Pickens counties. The wildfires prompted a statewide burning ban, with those violating the ban facing criminal prosecution.
In Horry County, resources were mobilized to combat the fires, with over 410 personnel and 128 fire apparatuses involved in the response. Evacuations were issued for eight neighborhoods in the county, with approximately 135 residents seeking shelter in a local recreation center. Despite the intensity of the fires, no injuries have been reported, and no structures have been destroyed.
Video footage circulating on social media showed the extent of the wildfires, with orange skies and smoke visible in the affected areas. Evacuations were ordered for neighborhoods in the Myrtle Beach area, including Spring Lake, Waterford, and Avalon. The South Carolina Forestry Commission emphasized the importance of acting swiftly if told to evacuate, while cautioning travelers about reduced visibility due to smoke.
The commission also issued a statewide burning ban, prohibiting all outdoor burning activities in unincorporated areas of the state. Resources from state partners, including planes to drop water on the fires, were deployed to aid in containment efforts. The South Carolina Forestry Commission stated that personnel would continue to monitor the situation until the fires are completely contained.
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