More than 175 active wildfires burned over 4,000 acres on Saturday alone.
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Governor Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency on Sunday as wildfires spread across South Carolina, fueled by dry, windy conditions.
Officials warn that the situation remains critical, with firefighters working tirelessly to contain the flames. Over 600 acres have burned in Clarendon County alone in the past 48 hours, stretching emergency resources to the limit.
Clarendon County Fire Chief Michael Johnson said his department has responded to an alarming number of fire-related emergencies recently.
“Since Wednesday, we’ve had 50 emergency responses for fires alone,” Johnson said. “As a chief, I’m asking you—if you have a fire burning or had one in the last 24 to 48 hours, please go outside and make sure it’s fully extinguished.”
Firefighters have been working nonstop since the South Carolina Forestry Commission issued a statewide burn ban on Saturday. Johnson said first responders—including fire crews, dispatchers, and law enforcement—are exhausted.
“Everybody’s just tired because they’re running fires everywhere,” he said. “The Forestry Commission is moving across the state as fast as they can to help us extinguish these fires.”
The State Fire Marshal reported more than 175 active wildfires across South Carolina Sunday afternoon. The South Carolina Forestry Commission estimates over 4,000 acres have been burned, with Horry County alone accounting for more than 1,000 acres.
Johnson said his department has deployed a crew and equipment to Horry County to assist with containment efforts.
“Through South Carolina mobilization, we’ve dispatched personnel to assist with larger fires in other counties,” he explained.
Despite the efforts of firefighters across the state, Johnson says fire departments are struggling to keep up.
“All fire departments are suffering because they need help, especially in times like this,” he said. “If you’re looking to volunteer, I encourage you to contact your local fire department and sign up.”
As South Carolina battles these devastating wildfires, officials urge residents to follow the statewide burn ban and take extra precautions to prevent further fires.
For those interested in volunteering with the Clarendon County Fire Rescue, more information can be found here.
