Massive wildfires threaten communities across Carolinas

Carolina Forest, South Carolina, March 2 — From Saturday to Sunday, an estimated 175 wildfires erupted across South Carolina, with dozens spreading into neighboring North Carolina by Sunday morning. Fueled by dry, windy conditions, the fires have forced thousands to flee, destroyed swaths of land and prompted a state of emergency in South Carolina.

The largest and most urgent blaze, dubbed the “Carolina Forest Fire,” ignited shortly before dawn on Sunday near residential neighborhoods in Horry County — where this writer’s family lives. Evacuation orders were issued as early as 4:45 a.m., and residents of Carolina Forest and surrounding areas were urged to leave immediately. Traffic congestion was reported along major evacuation routes, including Highway 501, as families scrambled to escape advancing flames.

South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency Sunday morning, activating National Guard resources and authorizing the deployment of Black Hawk helicopters to aid firefighting efforts. South Carolina Forestry Commission officials, alongside more than 410 personnel from local and regional fire agencies, are battling the Carolina Forest fire, which has already consumed approximately 4,200 acres (about 6.5 square miles).  For context, the blaze remains significantly smaller than California’s historic 37,800-acre Los Angeles wildfires, but its proximity to densely populated areas has heightened concerns.

While officials cite extreme weather conditions as a key factor, the exact cause of the wildfires remains under investigation. State authorities have not yet released details about potential ignition sources, leaving residents to speculate whether downed power lines, human activity or other triggers may be responsible.

As of Sunday evening, evacuation orders for Carolina Forest and adjacent communities have been lifted, despite the fire being only 30% contained. Horry County Fire Rescue spokesperson Dana Brown cautioned, “The situation remains fluid,” noting that shifting winds and dry vegetation could reignite hotspots. More than 60 structures, including homes and outbuildings, are confirmed damaged or destroyed, though no fatalities have been reported.

Displaced residents expressed frustration and anxiety, criticizing the lack of transparency about the fires’ origins and the decision to lift evacuations prematurely.  

“They’re telling us it’s safe, but we can still smell smoke. We can still see the glow,” said Carolina Forest resident Marissa Torres, who returned Sunday to find her property covered in ash.

Firefighters continued to work through the night, with reinforcements arriving from neighboring states. Shelters remain open in Myrtle Beach and Conway for those unable to return home.