Massive Wildfire in Carolina Forest Forces Evacuations

News Summary

A massive wildfire has burned approximately 1,600 acres in the Carolina Forest area since Saturday. As of Sunday afternoon, evacuation orders have been lifted for several neighborhoods, and the fire is 30% contained. However, visibility issues from smoke persist, affecting nearby roads. Local shelters are available for evacuees, and hotel discounts are being offered for displaced residents. Firefighting efforts are ongoing, with no reported injuries or property losses so far. Community response has been mixed as residents return to their homes.

Massive Wildfire in Carolina Forest Forces Evacuations

A **massive wildfire** has left its mark in the beautiful Carolina Forest area, burning about **1,600 acres** since it ignited on Saturday. Although the flames have calmed somewhat by Sunday, residents are still feeling the effects as the situation continues to develop.

Fire Progress and Evacuations

By Sunday afternoon, as the clock ticked toward **4:40 p.m.**, many were keeping a close eye on the latest containment status, which was still a little murky. However, just a bit earlier, around **4:30 p.m.**, Horry County Fire Rescue delivered some good news: all evacuated residents were finally allowed to return to their homes. But it wasn’t smooth sailing for everyone; returning residents faced **law enforcement checkpoints** along their routes.

The evacuation orders had been lifted for several neighborhoods, including **Indigo Bay, Indigo Farm, Summerlyn, Spring Lake, Covington Lakes, Waterford, Walkers Woods**, and **Avalon**. As of **7:30 p.m.** on Sunday, there was a bit more progress to report—the South Carolina Forestry Commission announced that the fire was now **30% contained**. This fire has become the **largest active fire** in South Carolina, prompting widespread concern.

Smoke and Road Closures

The smoke from this wildfire has been **impacting visibility** on nearby roads, making travel tricky. Specifically, **International Drive** remains closed at the fire gates, with alternate routes suggested through **Highways 501, 22, and 31**. People are being urged to **limit exposure to smoke**, as it can cause irritation and discomfort.

Support for Evacuees

If you or someone you know has been affected by this situation, the **Carolina Forest Recreation Center** is currently acting as a shelter for evacuees. The **American Red Cross** is also stepping in to assist; they plan to reevaluate the shelter status come Monday morning and are looking for monetary donations to help secure supplies. However, they are requesting that people hold off on donating clothing for the time being.

For those worried about their furry family members, **VCA Palmetto Animal Hospital** is offering pet boarding services. If you’re in need, don’t hesitate to reach out to them at **843-903-1900**.

Hotel Discounts Available

In an effort to support displaced residents, local hotel group **Vacation Myrtle Beach** is offering discounted rates of **$49 per night** at **Hotel Blue** and the **Landmark Resort**. To make this even better, they are waiving additional fees until **March 6**! Just remember to provide proof of residence to qualify for these special rates.

Firefighting Efforts

With over **49 resources** from the South Carolina Forestry Commission on the ground, firefighting efforts are robust. This includes planes dropping water on the fire as well as **Blackhawk helicopters** and operational bulldozers that are hard at work. As of now, there have been no reports of injuries or homes lost due to the wildfire, which comes as a relief for many in the area. Damage assessments are set to kick off on Monday, providing a clearer picture of the situation.

Community Response

Residents returning home are expressing a mix of **shock and gratitude**. The close proximity of the fire has rattled many, but the commendable efforts of first responders have not gone unnoticed. As the situation unfolds, it’s worth mentioning that over **100 wildfires** have been reported across South Carolina since Friday, with several still active on Sunday morning.

Stay safe, stay updated, and remember to help out where you can!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• WPDE
• ABC News 4
• WMBF News
• Live 5 News
• Myrtle Beach Online
• Wikipedia: Wildfire
• Google Search: Carolina Forest wildfire
• Google Scholar: Carolina Forest wildfire
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Wildfire
• Google News: South Carolina wildfire