Wildfires Force Evacuations, Spread Across Horry County

Wildfires in Horry County, South Carolina, have prompted evacuations in multiple neighborhoods, particularly Walkers Woods and Avalon, as firefighters battle blazes fueled by dry and windy conditions. The fires, which have grown to over 100 acres, led to emergency responders evacuating residents to the Carolina Forest Recreation Center for safety. Fire officials confirmed that the South Carolina Forestry Commission issued a statewide burn ban due to these hazardous conditions, which contributed to the ignitions of over 100 wildfires across the state on Saturday. Local fire crews, including those from Kershaw County, are assisting in efforts to contain the fires, which have threatened structures but, as of late Saturday, had not yet caused significant damage. The cause of the fires remains under investigation, with speculation about a controlled burn that may have gone awry. Residents are advised to stay clear of affected areas as containment efforts continue.