COLUMBIA, SC – Evacuation orders have been issued in a western North Carolina county as three wildfires continue to burn amid dry conditions and drought on Sunday.
As of Sunday afternoon, the Green River Cove Fire had scorched over 1,200 acres, the Deep Wood Fire had consumed a little over 1,700 acres, and the Fish Hook Fire had affected 199 acres, according to Polk County spokesperson Kellie Cannon. While the Fish Hook Fire was 50% contained, the two larger fires remained uncontained.
Fortunately, there have been no injuries or deaths reported as a result of the fires. North Carolina is currently experiencing its annual spring wildfire season, leading the state Forest Service to implement a statewide burn ban on Friday to protect lives, property, and forestland.
Meanwhile, in South Carolina, a fire has broken out on top of Table Rock Mountain in Table Rock State Park. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has declared a state of emergency in response to the fire, which has already grown to 300 acres by Sunday afternoon, with it starting on Friday.
The blaze’s impact is exacerbated by the aftermath of Hurricane Helene in September, which left downed timber on the mountain increasing the fuel load. Both North and South Carolina have been flagged as either “abnormally dry” or under moderate drought by the U.S. Drought Monitor, highlighting the dire conditions fueling the wildfires.
As firefighting efforts continue in both states, authorities are urging residents to adhere to the burn bans in place and take precautions to prevent further spread of the fires. The collaboration between state resources and aid is crucial in battling the wildfires and protecting communities from the devastation they can bring.