On March 21, wildfires began to rage through the Carolinas, burning through over 6,000 acres of land and causing around 20,000 people to be placed on mandatory evacuation as containment efforts commence. (CNN).

Governor Henry McMaster of South Carolina declared a state of emergency as fires consumed over 300 acres of land in the state. He stated “As this wildfire continues to spread, the State of Emergency allows us to mobilize resources quickly and ensure our firefighters have the support they need to protect lives and property,”  (The Guardian). 

In North Carolina, evacuation orders have been released for much of Polk County, one of the counties most afflicted. The wildfires have also caused a visibility hazard causing evacuation routes to potentially be blocked.

These fires are especially devastating to the two states as people attempt to recover from the effects of Hurricane Helene which swept through the area last fall. Fortunately, efforts have been successful in some places, for example in Myrtle Beach it is reported that “Containment has increased to 80% and the fire size remains at 2,059 acres” (WYFF4).

For resources on how to prepare for wildfires, visit  Ready.gov or the Red Crosses website.