Firefighters in both North and South Carolina are facing significant challenges as they combat several wildfires driven by strong winds in difficult-to-reach areas, officials reported.
The aftermath of Hurricane Helene last year, which left millions of trees toppled, combined with recent dry spells, has created ripe conditions for an extended and intense fire season in the Carolinas. North Carolina State University forestry professor Robert Scheller highlighted that dry conditions following Helene have turned the fallen trees into highly flammable material.
“Helene just deposited tons of potential fuel onto the ground,” Scheller stated. “The recent flash droughts have allowed that material to dry out very quickly.”
In response to the increasing fire threat, both states have implemented statewide prohibitions on outdoor burning.
In North Carolina, mandatory evacuations have been ordered for about 165 properties in Polk County, located roughly 80 miles west of Charlotte, according to county spokesperson Kellie Cannon.
Three fires have consumed at least 7.5 square miles in Polk County, with the largest fires entirely uncontained as of the latest updates. The Black Cove Fire is one of the significant blazes, advancing towards neighboring Henderson County.
Local resident Kim Callaway, residing near an evacuated area, has made preparations to protect her home. “We’ve already evacuated everything important,” Callaway shared with WLOS-TV. “We’re staying put, ready to support fire crews if needed.”
The Black Cove Fire was ignited by a fallen power line, while investigations into the other two fires continue, according to Jeremy Waldrop from the North Carolina Forest Service.
Other fires are active across the state, including one in Burke County that damaged 500 vehicles at a salvage yard.
In South Carolina, two mountain fires prompted Governor Henry McMaster to declare a state of emergency. Fires in Table Rock State Park and Persimmon Ridge in Greenville County have intensified due to strong winds and challenging terrain.
The Table Rock Fire has spread to over two square miles, with firefighters conducting controlled burns to manage it. The Persimmon Ridge Fire, which began Saturday, has grown to over 1.25 square miles despite numerous water drops.
Both fires were sparked by human activity, yet no injuries or immediate structural threats have been reported. However, voluntary evacuations remain for about 100 homes.
Professor Scheller predicts a challenging fire season due to the aftermath of Helene combined with dry weather. A similar situation occurred in 2022 when a fire followed the path of Hurricane Michael, fueled by downed trees in the Florida Panhandle.
The Carolinas are currently facing an extreme drought despite recent rainfall, increasing the risk of wildfires. Human actions, whether intentional or accidental, contribute significantly to fire occurrences, as emphasized by Scheller.
Meanwhile, in New Jersey, a wildfire within the Pinelands region has been completely contained after burning through about 3.5 square miles since being spotted on Saturday. Precautionary evacuations were ordered for two campgrounds in Wharton State Forest while the cause is still under investigation.
Weather patterns bringing rain and humidity have assisted firefighting efforts, but little precipitation and rising temperatures are expected to create more fire hazards during the week.
“It is critical that people adhere to the statewide ban on open burning,” stressed Philip Jackson from the North Carolina Forest Service.