Wildfires in Carolinas Out of Control as More People Evacuated

Wildfires in Carolinas: Evacuations and Emergencies as Blazes Rage.

North Carolina Wildfires Force Mandatory Evacuations

Polk County, North Carolina, still recovering from Hurricane Helene, faced new disaster as wildfires erupted. Officials issued a mandatory evacuation order, warning residents to leave immediately or risk being trapped.

“Visibility is dropping fast,” officials said in a social media alert. “Roads could be blocked. If you stay, you risk injury or worse.”

A shelter opened in Columbus for evacuees. Three active fires tore through the area—one spanning 1.9 square miles and another 2.8 square miles, both still uncontrolled by Sunday afternoon. County officials confirmed one home was lost, while a third fire (50% contained) destroyed three more.

A firefighter looks on as the California Branch wildfire burns Saturday, March 22, 2025 in New Jersey’s Wharton State Forest. (New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection via AP)

South Carolina Governor Declares State of Emergency

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency as firefighters battled the Table Rock Fire in Pickens County.

“This ensures fast resource mobilization,” McMaster said. “Our firefighters need all the help they can get.”

The human-caused blaze grew to over 300 acres with no containment. Steep terrain and hurricane debris made firefighting efforts nearly impossible. Officials urged voluntary evacuations for about 100 homes near Table Rock Mountain.

Hurricane Helene’s Aftermath Worsens Wildfire Crisis

North Carolina’s western region, already devastated by Hurricane Helene, now faces raging wildfires. The storm destroyed thousands of roads and bridges, leaving the area even more vulnerable.

New Jersey Wildfire Adds to Regional Fire Crisis

Meanwhile, New Jersey firefighters battled a wildfire in Wharton State Forest. The blaze burned 2.7 square miles by Sunday morning, forcing campground evacuations. Officials said nearby buildings were safe—for now.

What’s Next for the Carolinas?

With fires spreading, evacuations expanding, and resources stretched thin, the Carolinas remain in crisis. Stay alert for updates as emergency crews work to contain the flames.

Herbert Bauernebel

Herbert Bauernebel has been reporting from New York since 1999 and currently works for Bild.de, OE24 TV, and US Live. He also runs the news portal AmerikaReport.de. Bauernebel has covered nearly all major US events of the past quarter-century, including 9/11, Hurricane Katrina, Barack Obama’s election, Donald Trump’s surprise victory, the pandemic, last year’s election showdown, as well as natural disasters such as hurricanes and oil spills. He has also reported firsthand on international events, including the Asian tsunami, the Haiti earthquake, and the Fukushima disaster. He lives in Brooklyn with his family and holds degrees in communication and political science from the University of Vienna. Bauernebel is the author of a book about his experiences on 9/11, And the Air Was Full of Ash: 9/11 – The Day That Changed My Life.