Carolina Forest Wildfire Rages On: Thousands Evacuate as 1,200-Acre Inferno Spreads!
Carolina Forest, SC – A massive wildfire tearing through Carolina Forest has forced families to flee their homes, leaving an entire community on edge. What started as a manageable blaze has now exploded into a monstrous 1,200-acre inferno, with authorities confirming it remains 0% contained. The fire doubled in size overnight, feeding off dry conditions and strong winds, leaving officials scrambling to control its rapid spread.
Mass Evacuations as Flames Advance
Residents in several neighborhoods have been forced to evacuate, grabbing what they could before rushing to safety. The South Carolina Forestry Commission pinpointed the fire’s origin near Covington Drive, but its relentless advance has threatened multiple communities. Officials have urged those not yet under evacuation orders to remain vigilant and prepared for potential emergency departures.
Horry County Fire Rescue (HCFR) confirmed overnight that no injuries have been reported, and—miraculously—no buildings have been destroyed. However, residents describe a night of fear and uncertainty as they watched the fire’s glow creep closer to their homes.
“It looked like something out of an apocalypse movie,” one evacuee said. “We could see the smoke rolling in, and we knew it was time to go.”
Authorities have not provided a timeline for when residents will be able to return home, as the fire remains unpredictable. The county has designated the Carolina Forest Recreation Center as the primary evacuation shelter, where 52 evacuees have already checked in with the Red Cross.
Neighborhoods Under Mandatory Evacuation:
The wildfire’s reach continues to expand, forcing evacuations in at least seven neighborhoods across Carolina Forest:
- Spring Lake Community: Blackberry Lane, including Pennyroyal Court, Alyssum Court, and Bluebonnet Court.
- Waterford Plantation: Harvest Drive (Moonbeam Court to Tidelands Court).
- Covington Lakes: Covington Drive (Summerhill Drive to the community center).
- Walkers Woods: Arrow Wood Court, Indianola Court, and Tuckahoe Road. (Previously allowed to return, now back on evacuation list.)
- Indigo Bay, Summerlyn, and Farm Communities: Evacuations will remain in place until at least daybreak.
- Avalon Neighborhood: Full evacuation ordered.
Wyandot Court, which was initially evacuated, has been cleared for residents to return home.
A Night of Chaos and Uncertainty
As the fire surged, families scrambled to gather essentials, unsure of what they’d return to. Some packed up their cars in minutes, while others barely had time to wake up their children before heading out.
“I grabbed my kids, my dog, and whatever I could carry in my arms,” one mother said. “I don’t even know if our house will still be standing when we get back.”
Officials have warned that conditions could worsen, as weather patterns play a crucial role in the fire’s behavior. Firefighters are working around the clock, but without significant containment, the situation remains dire.
What Comes Next?
With the wildfire showing no signs of slowing, many residents are left wondering: How did this happen? Could it have been prevented? And most importantly—when will it be safe to return home?
As the investigation unfolds and emergency crews battle the blaze, we will continue to provide real-time updates. Stay tuned for the latest developments on this unfolding disaster.
For those under evacuation orders, head to the Carolina Forest Recreation Center for shelter and assistance.
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