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Wildfires Prompt Evacuations in North Carolina and South Carolina
On Saturday, significant brush fires broke out in both North Carolina and South Carolina, leading officials to enforce evacuation orders for affected communities.
In Polk County, North Carolina, a fire is reported to have consumed over 400 acres and was not contained as of late Saturday night, as stated by the North Carolina Fire Service. The agency has indicated that nearby structures could be threatened, and evaluations of potential damage will take place on Sunday morning.
Authorities in Polk County have advised residents living along U.S. Highway 176, particularly in the areas between Tryon and Saluda, to evacuate. A warning issued via social media highlighted the rapid spread of the fire, as multiple fire departments collaborated on efforts to establish control. Tryon and Saluda are located approximately 40 miles south of Asheville.
Looting Incident Amid Fires:
A woman has been accused of looting within the evacuation zones of the Palisades fire, allegedly wearing a “Palisades Strong” shirt at the time.
The county is providing shelter to those displaced at the Polk County Meeting Place in Columbus.
In South Carolina, Horry County Fire Rescue ordered residents from various neighborhoods in Carolina Forest to evacuate. This area is situated around ten miles west of Myrtle Beach, where emergency crews are working diligently to contain a growing wildfire.
According to Horry County Fire Rescue’s updates on social media, “Crews are continuing to work a large wildfire near Carolina Forest.” The county is assessing weather forecasts and preparing to adapt their plans for safety and property protection as necessary.
A statewide burning ban has also been enacted in South Carolina due to hazardous wildfire conditions. This ban indicates that anyone responsible for igniting a fire may face legal consequences, according to state officials, as teams combat multiple fires statewide.
The situation has led to additional resources being mobilized, including two planes and a Blackhawk helicopter scheduled to assist with water drops on Sunday morning. South Carolina GOP state Representative Tim McGinnis shared this information following discussions with State Forester Scott Phillips. Tractors equipped for fire line construction are also being dispatched to help contain the blaze.
South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has emphasized the seriousness of the situation and the necessity of the burning ban as firefighting crews continue their efforts.
Weather Conditions Under Review:
A red flag warning issued by the National Weather Service for western North Carolina and upstate South Carolina lifted late Saturday night. These warnings signal critical fire weather conditions are either currently present or imminent.
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