Evacuations ramp up as South Carolina wildfires spread, impacting 4,200 acres of land

HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW) — Evacuations are underway after a wildfire broke out in the Carolina Forest in Horry County, South Carolina.

More than 50 people have checked into a Red Cross shelter at the Carolina Forest Recreation Center as state Forestry Commission officials estimate the wildfire to be at least 1,200 acres.

Along with Horry County’s massive wildfire, roughly 175 smaller wildfires have broken out across the state, impacting 4,200 acres of land, according to the state Fire Marshal.

Gov. Henry McMaster on Sunday declared a state of emergency to support South Carolina’s ongoing response.

The order continues indefinitely an outdoor burning ban and makes it easier for responders to coordinate their efforts.

“This state of emergency ensures that our first responders, who are working tirelessly and risking their lives to protect our communities from these wildfires, have the resources they need,” McMaster said in a statement.

Dozens of fire agencies from across the Carolinas have joined Horry County crews as they work against the sweeping wildfire.

As of early Sunday, no structures have caught fire and no injuries were reported.

Around 11:50 p.m. Saturday, officials announced evacuations for the Indigo Bay, the Farm, and Summerlyn neighborhoods of Carolina Forest.

Earlier Saturday evening, evacuation orders were lifted in some areas even as flames were visible on the horizon.

By 7:30 p.m., residents of Tuckahoe Road and Wyandot Court were cleared to return home, although several other neighborhoods remained under evacuation as the 100-acre blaze shut down International Drive to Highway 90.

Horry County spokeswoman Mikayla Moskov said about 20 people were sheltering at the Carolina Forest Recreation Center, while smoke and odor from the fire were observed more than 15 miles away.

Several local businesses also offered services, including free boarding VCA Palmetto Animal Hospital and discounted rates from lodging group Visit Myrtle Beach, which said Saturday displaced residents were eligible for $49 nightly rates through March 6 at Hotel Blue and Landmark Resort.

Participants must provide proof of residence within Carolina Forest and call (866) 951-6806 to make reservations.

Horry County officials also asked people to keep 911 lines open so people facing immediate risk can quickly connect with emergency response services.

That agency, along with state Department of Natural Resources, North Myrtle Beach Fire Rescue, Horry County Fire Rescue and Horry County police were among those that responded.

Kershaw County Fire Service personnel left the Midlands to assist Horry County through a mutual aid agreement.