Commuters in Carolina Forest near Myrtle Beach faced heavy smoke on their way to work Monday following a weekend of rapidly growing wildfires that threatened homes.
People in several neighborhoods scrambled to gather their belongings and find shelter Saturday as officials called for mandatory evacuations. They were allowed to return late Sunday but were advised to remain alert as forestry officials warned the wildfires were only 30 percent contained. An emergency shelter reopened Monday just in case.
Officials say more than 400 firefighters and some 30 agencies have been battling the flames, at times using planes to drop water. At least 2,000 acres have been scorched in Horry County.
So far, no injuries or structural damage have been reported. And there’s no word on what sparked the fires which doubled in size overnight Saturday near Myrtle Beach. Officials say the flames have been fueled by dry conditions and gusty winds, but rain is expected Wednesday.
Across the state, the governor has declared an emergency as the Office of State Marshal reports responding to 175 wildfires. Attorney General Alan Wilson alerted people Sunday that the state’s law against price gouging is in effect.
