South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency Sunday as wildfires swept through the Carolinas and Georgia, burning thousands of acres and forcing evacuations.
Dry conditions and strong winds fueled the flames, with over 175 fires reported in South Carolina earlier in the day, according to the governor’s office.
I have declared a State of Emergency to further support wildfire response efforts across the state and ensure our first responders continue to have the resources they need. A statewide outdoor burning ban remains in effect—violators will be prosecuted. Please stay informed.
— Gov. Henry McMaster (@henrymcmaster) March 2, 2025
By early Monday, the South Carolina Forestry Commission reported 163 active fires burning more than 5,400 acres. A large wildfire in the Carolina Forest area prompted evacuations in neighborhoods like Walkers Woods and Avalon. Residents were allowed to return home by Sunday afternoon, though officials cautioned that smoke would remain visible in the area for some time.
Insane fire Sunday morning in Carolina Forest has swelled to 1,200 acres from 600 acres last night.
The firemen fighting this blaze in South Carolina (near Myrtle Beach) are true heroes.
Pray for the victims and that they get all the help they need.pic.twitter.com/PvTxgQPpVX
— Paul A. Szypula 🇺🇸 (@Bubblebathgirl) March 2, 2025
Damage assessments are expected to begin this afternoon. Fire crews and first responders continue efforts to contain the largest fires, including a 1,600-acre blaze in Horry County, which was 30% contained as of this morning.
The National Weather Service expects relief by Tuesday as a cold front moves in, bringing rain to the region and helping suppress fire activity. Meanwhile, the South Carolina Forestry Commission has deployed 40 resources, alongside multiple other agencies, to battle the ongoing fires. Drivers in affected areas are urged to remain cautious due to reduced visibility from lingering smoke.
2:25am CST #SPC Day3 Outlook Enhanced Risk: Tuesday afternoon and evening across southern Arkansas .much of northern and central Louisiana and central/southern Mississippi https://t.co/K89lXjsUbi pic.twitter.com/dQ8x8HEZXd
— NWS Storm Prediction Center (@NWSSPC) March 2, 2025
