Carolina Forest wildfire grows to 1,600 acres, 30% contained
HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WMBF) - First responders across South Carolina have descended on the Carolina Forest area to help battle a massive wildfire.
Residents from several neighborhoods, including Walkers Woods and Avalaon, were evacuated due to the fire before being allowed to return home Sunday afternoon.
MORE INFORMATION | Residents evacuated from Carolina Forest wildfire allowed to return home
An Horry County spokesperson also told WMBF News that as of 4:45 p.m. Sunday, there were no reports of homes or other structures being lost in the wildfire. Damage assessments are expected to begin on Monday.
No injuries have been reported.
Horry County Fire Rescue also said Sunday that smoke is expected to be visible in the area of the fire for some time. Those driving across the area are asked to use caution.
In an update just before 6 p.m. Sunday, the South Carolina Forestry Commission said the fire has grown to 1,600 acres and is 30% contained. The SCFC also said 40 of its resources are at the scene along with other agencies.
WMBF News received this dramatic and terrifying video of one family evacuating their home in Walkers Woods early Sunday morning.
Footage from a Ring doorbell camera at The Reserves at Walker Woods also shows intense flames in the area.
SUNDAY’S ATTACK
The state sent planes on Sunday morning to drop water on the wildfire in Carolina Forest. The county confirmed around 9:55 a.m. that the planes had arrived.
State Sen. Luke Rankin said that the air assets from the state would try to “tamp down remaining hot spots.”
“While the loss of property has been miraculously avoided thus far, please take evacuation orders seriously and plan accordingly,” Rankin said.
Some took videos of the planes and aircraft at work.
West Florence Fire-Rescue said it has sent resources to Horry County to also help with the wildfire.
ROAD CLOSURE
A section of International Drive remains closed indefinitely.
The closure will run from International Drive at Highway 90 to the nearby Ocean Bay schools.
The county said crews are utilizing the road for its emergency response.
Stay with WMBF News for updates.
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