Brush fires fueled by gusty winds and dry conditions have sparked evacuations in communities across North and South Carolina. The fires erupted during a red-flag warning across the southeastern United States, signaling a high fire risk. Most warnings expired late Saturday night as winds calmed down.
In North Carolina, a brush fire threatened Tryon and Saluda, small communities in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Multiple fire departments rushed to battle the blaze endangering Meadowlark Drive in Tryon, prompting evacuations in the area. Tryon, with a population of around 1,500, and Saluda, with fewer than 1,000 residents, were at risk.
Meanwhile, in South Carolina, a brush fire near Myrtle Beach was 75% contained by early Saturday night. Crews were working to fully contain the fire threatening Carolina Forest, with some neighborhoods already under evacuation orders. Another fire near Six Mile, S.C., led to recommended evacuations along several streets due to the combination of gusty winds, dry air, and low 70s temperatures.
The dry conditions in South Carolina, exacerbated by unusually low rainfall in February, have left the vegetation dry and susceptible to fires. Myrtle Beach, for example, received only 2.30 inches of rain since January 1, significantly below the normal 6.30 inches for this time of year. North Carolina, although slightly wetter last month, also experienced below-average rainfall.
As fire crews continue their efforts to contain the blazes, the communities affected are relying on their swift response and the improving weather conditions to bring the situation under control.