A wildfire in Carolina Forest, Horry County, has caused significant disruption, leading to evacuations and injuries as fire crews worked to contain the blaze.
Details of the Carolina Forest Wildfire
The fire broke out Tuesday afternoon around 2:30 p.m. in the area of North Shore Drive and Red Wolf Trail. Horry County Fire Rescue (HCFR) responded promptly, battling a seven-acre wildfire. As a precautionary measure, three homes on Red Wolf Trail were evacuated, along with several multi-unit complexes on North Shore Drive.
Injuries and Evacuations
One person sustained minor injuries during the incident, though no further details on their condition have been released. The evacuation of homes and complexes was primarily a safety measure as crews worked to control the fire.
Efforts to Contain the Fire
Crews worked tirelessly to protect structures, with support from various agencies. The South Carolina Forestry Commission brought in plows, reconnaissance planes, and water tanker planes to assist with fire containment. HCFR also deployed a drone to monitor the situation from above.
By 6:35 p.m., the scene was under control, but officials warned that smoke would remain visible for some time due to ongoing dry conditions. Portable sprinklers were used, and fire crews from Horry County, North Myrtle Beach, and the Forestry Commission remained on the scene.
Impact on Schools and Community
Horry County Schools notified parents that smoke from the wildfire could affect schools in the Carolina Forest area. The school district assured the community that they were closely monitoring conditions to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Drought Conditions and Wildfire Risks
The fire comes amid serious drought conditions in Horry County and much of the state, which have been exacerbated by a lack of rain over recent months. The statewide burn ban, which was enacted on Friday, aims to reduce the risk of further wildfires, but the dry conditions continue to make it easier for fires to spread rapidly.
The South Carolina Forestry Commission reported multiple active wildfires across the state, including the large 1,750-acre Marion-Woodbury road blaze in Marion County, which is only 60% contained.
