March 4, 2025: Firefighters in North and South Carolina are battling over 170 wildfires, leading to evacuations and emergency declarations as dry and windy conditions continue to fuel the blazes.
Major Fires and Areas Affected
The largest wildfire, burning in Carolina Forest near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, has spread across 1,600 acres. The South Carolina Forestry Commission reported that as of Monday, the fire was 30% contained. Smoke significantly reduced visibility in the area, prompting officials to urge residents to remain cautious.
Evacuated residents of Carolina Forest were allowed to return home on Sunday, but authorities continue to warn about the risk posed by persistent dry and windy conditions. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency and announced that a statewide burn ban would remain in effect indefinitely.
In North Carolina, a wildfire in Polk County has burned approximately 500 acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains, impacting the small communities of Tryon and Saluda. The fire, reportedly caused by a downed power line, was 30% contained as of Monday morning. Emergency management teams are reinforcing fire lines to prevent further spread.
Air Quality Concerns and Public Health Impact
Authorities have issued air-quality alerts, cautioning residents in affected regions, particularly in Horry County, South Carolina, to remain indoors due to elevated levels of smoke and airborne particulates. The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services warned that concentrations of dust and soot may reach unhealthy levels.
Many residents have reported difficulties due to the smoke. Julinna Oxley, a philosophy professor at Coastal Carolina University, evacuated her Carolina Forest home with her family after air purifiers failed to keep up with the dense smoke. “You could literally see it in the house,” she said. Other residents have described experiencing throat irritation and discomfort similar to prolonged exposure to a bonfire.
Emergency Response and Firefighting Efforts
The South Carolina Forestry Commission is using aerial water drops to combat the fires. In Horry County, another fire burning across 800 acres reached 80% containment as of Sunday afternoon. Officials hope that anticipated rain showers on Wednesday will aid containment efforts.
In Georgia, the state’s forestry commission reported 137 wildfires burning across 2,390 acres over the weekend. Conditions improved slightly on Sunday, but officials continue to urge caution due to ongoing fire risks across the southeastern United States.
Causes and Contributing Factors
The National Weather Service has issued red-flag warnings across much of the region, citing “critical to extreme” fire conditions. Strong winds, low humidity, and warm temperatures have accelerated the spread of the wildfires. South Carolina has also experienced below-average rainfall this year, leaving vegetation particularly dry and susceptible to ignition.
Myrtle Beach has recorded only 2.3 inches of rain since January 1, significantly lower than the seasonal average of 6.3 inches. North Carolina has also reported below-average rainfall in recent months, exacerbating fire conditions.
Outlook and Safety Precautions
While no injuries or structural losses have been reported, officials stress the importance of continued vigilance. Residents in fire-prone areas are urged to monitor local advisories, avoid any activities that could spark additional fires, and prepare evacuation plans if necessary.
Emergency crews remain on high alert as they work to contain the fires and minimize damage. Authorities hope that incoming rainfall will aid their efforts, but with dry conditions persisting, the risk of further outbreaks remains a concern.