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North and South Carolina residents are facing evacuations amid an onslaught of wildfires. Over the weekend of March 1 and 2, 2025, thousands were faced with the harsh reality of fleeing their homes while fires ravaged the region. As the situation unfolds, we have the latest updates on where the fires are now, which areas were evacuated and more, below.
Where Are the Fires in North Carolina Now?
According to USA Today, a wildfire was burning in the Blue Ridge mountains in North Carolina. The inferno threatened the Saluda and Tyron communities, which are located near the border of South Carolina.
Most of the contained fires and progress of containment can be viewed on the South Carolina Forest Service’s website. Per NBC News, around four fires were still active in N.C.
Where Are the Fires in South Carolina Now?
Per USA Today, around 175 fires scorched parts of South Carolina. However, almost all of them were promptly contained. More than 4,000 acres of land and counting have been burned at the time of publication. By March 3, 2025, South Carolina Forestry Commission Director of Communications Doug Wood said there were three active fires in the region.
South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster issued a state of emergency for S.C. residents. As seen on the governor’s X account, he announced on March 2, “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.”
Over the weekend, a brush fire erupted in Carolina Forest, which is just a few miles away from Myrtle Beach, S.C. Horry County Fire Rescue issued evacuations for residents in the Carolina Forest.
Response operations in the state have focused on Horry, Spartanburg, Oconee, Union and Pickens counties, according to multiple outlets.
Have the Carolinas Ever Faced Wildfires Before?
Yes, North and South Carolina residents have experienced wildfires for decades. According to the South Carolina Forestry Commission, the most significant wildfires in the state’s recorded history date all the way back to 1898. Both states are accustomed to fire season when infernos are anticipated between March and April. However, there have been several wildfires during the month of February in the past.
In general, forest fires can occur any time in late winter and early spring.
