News Summary
South Carolina is grappling with a significant wildfire crisis, with over 100 fires reported since March 1, 2025. The Carolina Forest fire has reached 1,600 acres and remains only 30% contained. While some fires have been contained, new outbreaks near Clarendon and Kershaw Counties are raising alarm. Governor Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency to aid firefighting efforts, which include over 400 firefighters and aerial support. The community is advised to avoid affected areas as risks remain high and air quality is compromised by smoke.
Over 100 Wildfires Rage Across South Carolina
South Carolina is currently facing a serious wildfire crisis, with over 100 fires reported across the region since Friday, March 1, 2025. Residents in many areas are worried as smoke fills the air and communities grapple with the ongoing threat of flames.
As of Sunday, March 2, there are still six wildfires burning actively. The South Carolina Forestry Commission (SCFC) has shared some alarming statistics. The Carolina Forest fire has expanded significantly, now measuring a staggering 1,600 acres and is only 30% contained. Meanwhile, the Lewis Ocean Bay fire has been marked as contained, providing a glimmer of hope in this troubling situation.
An ongoing fire in Orangeburg County near Pooh Lane was upgraded to active status on Sunday afternoon, raising concerns for local residents. In contrast, a fire near Huger was reported as completely contained at around 3 acres, only to face a quick change as new flames sparked near Bess Lane.
Good news came from the Charleston County area, where the fire previously reported in McClellanville has been removed from the SCFC wildfire map, indicating no active flames at that location anymore. However, not far off, new fires have emerged in Clarendon County near Salem Road and in Kershaw County close to Oak Ridge Church Road, adding to the anxiety of surrounding communities.
In just the last week, more than 4,200 acres of South Carolina land have gone up in flames with a total of 175 fires reported. The reasons behind this harsh wildfire outbreak boil down to dry conditions and strong winds, creating an environment where fires can spread rapidly. In response, authorities have implemented a statewide burn ban.
Many neighborhoods, particularly those near the Carolina Forest fire in Horry County, have been ordered to evacuate. Firefighters have been hard at work, utilizing aerial support with helicopters and planes swooping in to drench hotspots with much-needed water, as more than 400 firefighters have joined forces to tackle these blazes head-on.
Amid the chaos, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has declared a state of emergency, which will enable a more robust response to the wildfire crisis. Fortunately, as of now, there have been no reports of any structures lost or people injured, which is a relief in such trying circumstances.
In an inspiring moment, firefighters paused at the local Carolina Forest Community Church to reflect and pray while combating the blaze, showing the human side amidst the crisis. However, while recovery efforts unfold, the Carolina Forest Recreation Center will be reopening on a staggered schedule.
Residents returning home should be mindful that law enforcement checkpoints are set up, coupled with low visibility due to the smoke permeating through roads in the area. Many roads are closed, and drivers are strongly advised to take caution and seek alternate routes as they navigate these conditions.
The wildfires have also raised concerns for wildlife, prompting warnings for residents not to approach or feed any displaced animals. Meanwhile, South Carolina’s Army National Guard has deployed Black Hawk helicopters to assist in fighting the flames, and air operations will see adjustments made based on evolving fire conditions and forecasts.
The presence of smoke in the air may cause irritation, and local residents are encouraged to limit their exposure if affected. As this difficult situation unfolds, the community bands together, hoping for the swift containment of these wildfires.
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Additional Resources
- ABC News: Wildfires in South Carolina
- Wikipedia: Wildfire
- Washington Post: Carolina Wildfires
- Google Search: Carolina Wildfires 2025
- AP News: North and South Carolina Wildfires
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wildfire
- Fox News: SC Wildfires State of Emergency
- Google News: South Carolina Wildfires
Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
