News Summary
The Covington Drive fire has expanded to over 2,000 acres with only 30% containment near Carolina Forest, affecting air quality and prompting evacuations. The South Carolina National Guard has been deployed to assist with firefighting efforts. While multiple fires are ongoing statewide, the community has shown resilience amidst these challenges. Evacuations have been lifted in some areas, and local officials continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring the safety of residents.
Wildfires Cause Concern in Carolina Forest Near Myrtle Beach
Carolina Forest, a neighborhood near Myrtle Beach, is facing a serious challenge as the Covington Drive fire expands to over 2,000 acres with only 30% containment as of last night. Reported at 2:39 p.m. on Saturday, March 1, what started as a small fire in a backyard has quickly escalated, causing evacuations and prompting a state of emergency.
Multiple Fires Ignite, Prompting Action
In addition to the Covington Drive fire, ten new wildfires ignited throughout the day but were efficiently brought under control. However, the ongoing situation has led to concerns about air quality in the area. As smoke from the wildfires blankets the region, the National Weather Service has issued an air quality alert for Horry County. Residents are being advised to limit outdoor activities, especially those with respiratory issues.
Support from the National Guard
In response to the wildfire crisis, the South Carolina National Guard has stepped in, deploying two UH-60 Blackhawk teams and a CH-47 Chinook for crucial wildfire suppression missions. In less than 18 hours of operations, nearly 60,000 gallons of water have been delivered to help contain the flames.
Imagined Potential Disaster Averted
Despite the escalating situation, the community received some good news. So far, no injuries or structural damage have been reported, a credit to first responders who have worked tirelessly to battle the flames. Over a dozen fire departments, including those from Williamsburg County, North Myrtle Beach, and Conway, have joined forces with Horry County Fire Rescue to keep the community safe. A local medical center has confirmed that they have treated no patients for fire-related emergencies.
The Bigger Picture: Statewide Fire Incidents
While the focus is on the wildfires impacting Carolina Forest, the South Carolina Forestry Commission has reported over 175 ongoing fire incidents statewide, affecting a total of 4,200 acres. It’s crucial for residents to stay updated on air quality as conditions rapidly change due to ongoing fires.
Neighborhood Concerns and Adjustments
Due to the hazardous air quality, youth baseball and softball practices in Myrtle Beach have been canceled. Horry County Schools are also adjusting athletic practices accordingly while keeping an eye on outdoor conditions. This heightened vigilance comes as heavy smoke continues to affect visibility along major roads, including Highway 501 and Highway 31. To ease firefighting efforts, International Drive has been closed to traffic.
Evacuations and Community Response
Evacuations were ordered in several neighborhoods, specifically in areas like Indigo Bay Farm and Spring Lake. Fortunately, there has been some good news as evacuation orders for certain areas have been lifted, allowing residents to return home. Meanwhile, the smaller Blackthorn Drive fire, which burned around 800 acres, has been reported as 100% contained.
What Lies Ahead
In light of these ongoing challenges, the Horry County Council is scheduled to discuss wildfire operations in an upcoming meeting. As helicopters and planes continue to operate above, dropping water on the fires while drones assist with reconnaissance, the community remains hopeful that progress will be made soon.
The emergency shelter at the Carolina Forest Recreation Center has now closed but will remain available for future wildfire response operations as needed. The situation remains fluid, so residents are urged to stay alert, monitor updates, and take precautions as needed in their daily lives.
As Carolina Forest faces this unprecedented challenge, the community is rallying together to support one another, proving that even in dire situations, resilience emerges. The efforts of first responders and local officials are commendable, ensuring that safety remains a priority as they combat these wildfires.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Firefighters Tackle Expanding Wildfire in Carolina Forest
Wildfires Affecting Myrtle Beach and Carolina Forest
President Trump Golfing Amidst Carolina Wildfires
South Carolina Declares State of Emergency Amid Wildfire Crisis
Carolina Forest Recovers from Wildfire Chaos
Massive Wildfire in Carolina Forest Forces Evacuations
Evacuation Orders Issued as Wildfire Grows Near Carolina Forest
Wildfires Prompt Evacuations in Horry County
Charleston Faces Grim Drought and Wildfire Risks
International Drive Closure for Controlled Burns Begins February 25
Additional Resources
- WBTW News
- Wikipedia: Wildfire
- New York Times
- Google Search: Wildfires in Myrtle Beach
- AP News
- Google Scholar: Wildfires South Carolina
- Myrtle Beach Online
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wildfire
- Fox Weather
- Google News: Carolina Wildfires
