Massive Wildfires Burn Across North and South Carolina, Prompting State of Emergency and Evacuations

Wildfires continue to rage across North and South Carolina, with over 160 active fires reported in North Carolina and 80 in South Carolina as of Tuesday. The largest blaze, burning near Myrtle Beach, has spread across more than 2,000 acres and remains largely uncontained.

The Myrtle Beach-area wildfire ignited on Saturday in Horry County’s Carolina Forest, fueled by dry conditions and unseasonably warm temperatures. Residents were ordered to evacuate, and South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency. By Sunday afternoon, firefighters had contained 30% of the blaze, but as of Tuesday morning, that number had not increased.

Efforts to control the fires are ongoing. A Black Hawk helicopter and planes were seen dropping water onto the flames, while ground crews worked to dig containment lines around the fire’s perimeter.

Meanwhile, North Carolina has seen over 2,300 acres burned, with the largest wildfire in Polk County covering more than 600 acres. Officials have reported that 91% of that fire has been contained.

While evacuations were lifted in Horry County, fire officials are urging residents to remain cautious, as weather conditions could lead to flare-ups. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, warning that hot spots may reignite.

BREAKING: 175 LARGE wildfires are ripping through South Carolina.

Multiple homes are in the path of the inferno.

Donald Trump is currently at Mar-a-lago this weekend GOLFING.

Where is the right-wing outrage? I’m waiting. pic.twitter.com/IhAcCHnVrc

— Brian Krassenstein (@krassenstein) March 2, 2025

This isnt my normal post but I’ve seen no media coverage at all abt this. My hometown is being absolutely ravished by wildfires right now. My family has been forced to evacuate just over night. The fires have spread so rapidly that they cannot contain them. pic.twitter.com/JjUsa69d1y

— maddie! 💫 (@starryote) March 2, 2025

🚨 South Carolina Wildfire Emergency 🚨

• 175+ wildfires raging across the state
• 4,200 acres impacted
• Evacuations ordered in 8 neighborhoods
• 135+ residents in shelters
• Statewide burning ban in effectpic.twitter.com/SYeWXe3FQf

— Los Angeles Magazine (@LAmag) March 2, 2025