Wildfires In The Carolinas Fueled By Drought, Wind And Fallen Trees From Hurricane Helene

Dry conditions, wind, and trees downed by Hurricane Helene have fueled wildfires in North Carolina and South Carolina, leading to evacuation orders in effect. Residents in the area are still recovering from the aftermath of the hurricane that struck in September, as mentioned by North Carolina Forest Service spokesperson Bo Dossett. The downed trees from Hurricane Helene have made it challenging for firefighters to contain the fires, adding to the ongoing crisis faced by residents since September.

The National Weather Service issued a red flag warning for parts of South Carolina Upstate, western North Carolina, and northeast Georgia due to favorable conditions for the rapid spread of wildfires. Mandatory evacuations were in place for 146 properties in rural Polk County, with fires burning at least 9.6 square miles in Polk and Henderson counties. The causes of the fires are under investigation, with one sparked by a downed power line.

Volunteer fire departments were on standby in Henderson County, which issued voluntary evacuation orders and opened an emergency shelter. Two fires were burning in the mountains of South Carolina, with no injuries reported, but voluntary evacuations issued for about 100 homes. The dry weather and fallen trees from Hurricane Helene have created a long and active fire season in the Carolinas, according to North Carolina State University professor Robert Scheller.

Despite recent rain, most of the Carolinas are experiencing abnormally dry or moderate drought conditions, according to federal monitors. Officials clarified that evacuations were not recommended near the Persimmon Ridge Fire, but residents should be prepared to leave if suggested. The situation remains concerning as weather conditions could continue to facilitate the spread of fires in the region.