A devastating wildfire in Myrtle Beach has scorched approximately 1,200 acres, prompting a large-scale response from state agencies and the National Guard.
As flames continue to spread, officials have ordered evacuations in at least 11 neighborhoods, and Governor Henry McMaster has declared a state of emergency to mobilize resources for firefighting efforts.
South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster announced the state of emergency on Sunday, emphasizing the urgent need for resources to support first responders battling the blaze.
“This State of Emergency ensures that our first responders, who are working tirelessly and risking their lives to protect our communities from these wildfires, have the resources they need,” McMaster stated in a press release.
I have declared a State of Emergency to further support wildfire response efforts across the state and ensure our first responders continue to have the resources they need. A statewide outdoor burning ban remains in effect—violators will be prosecuted. Please stay informed.
— Gov. Henry McMaster (@henrymcmaster) March 2, 2025
Additionally, a statewide outdoor burning ban remains in effect until further notice. McMaster warned that anyone violating the ban would face criminal prosecution.
U.S. Army Soldiers with Company A, 111th General Support Aviation Battalion, 59 Aviation Troop Command, South Carolina Army National Guard prepared two Blackhawk Helicopters to assist the South Carolina Forestry Commission and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources… pic.twitter.com/O9iUTUT83t
— SC National Guard (@SCNationalGuard) March 2, 2025
The governor took to social media to stress the seriousness of the situation, urging residents to stay informed as emergency crews work around the clock.
To aid in the firefighting effort, the South Carolina Army National Guard has deployed Blackhawk helicopters to assist the South Carolina Forestry Commission and the Department of Natural Resources.
South Carolina has declared a state of emergency as 175 wildfires burn across the state, consuming 4,200 acres and threatening multiple homes.
— Johnny Midnight ⚡️ (@its_The_Dr) March 3, 2025
This has forced evacuations and continues to spread, consuming thousands of acres with 0% containment.
pic.twitter.com/ONbAHtNyDj
Photos shared by McMaster and the National Guard show soldiers preparing helicopters to conduct water drops over the affected areas.
Fire crews are engaged in a relentless battle against the flames as video footage captures towering smoke and firefighters struggling to contain the inferno. Aerial footage shows water being dumped over vast burning areas, illustrating the wildfire’s immense scale.
As of 4:46 p.m. Sunday, no injuries or structural damage have been reported. However, firefighting efforts remain in full force.
According to Horry County Fire Rescue, approximately 410 personnel are currently engaged in the response, utilizing at least 127 fire apparatus to combat the fire.
Crews have vowed to continue operations until the fire is fully contained, though officials warn that dry conditions and strong winds could cause further challenges.
Authorities continue to monitor the fire’s spread, and residents in nearby areas are urged to remain on high alert. Officials are expected to provide further updates as they work to bring the wildfire under control.
This remains a developing story.