Wildfires Consume Over 17,000 Acres in Carolinas, Fueled by Hurricane Helene Debris

Wildfires in the Carolinas, exacerbated by debris from Hurricane Helene, have burned over 17,000 acres this week, with significant fires including the Table Rock and Black Cove complexes. The Table Rock fire, which has consumed over 10,672 acres, is hampered by downed trees blocking access for firefighting crews, and officials warn that the remnants of Helene will pose a long-term fire risk. South Carolina's State Forester noted that the cleanup from the hurricane complicates fire containment efforts, as many fire resources are deployed to other blazes in the region. In North Carolina, the Black Cove Fire is currently the highest priority fire in the U.S., with challenges stemming from excessive storm debris and dry conditions. Evacuation orders remain in place across affected areas as crews continue to battle the flames, with weather conditions expected to remain unfavorable. Both states face a critical situation, with humidity levels low and winds potentially worsening the fire spread in the coming days.