Urgent Evacuations in Carolina Forest: Wildfire Spreads to 600 Acres – What You Need to Know

HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WPDE) — A large wildfire covering 600 acres is putting homes in Carolina Forest at risk.

Officials have ordered evacuations in the Reserve area of Walkers Woods and the Avalon neighborhood. This is due to the active wildfires reported by Horry County Fire Rescue (HCFR).

Recently, an evacuation was announced for Covington Drive, stretching from Summerhill Drive to the community center in Covington Lakes. This alert came early in the morning as shifting winds threatened the fire’s spread.

Earlier evacuations were also put in place at 3:15 a.m. for residents on Arrow Wood Court, Indianola Court, and Tuckahoe Road in the Walkers Woods area.

As of late last night, evacuations have expanded to include the Indigo Bay, the Farm, and the Summerlyn neighborhoods.

However, at 7:30 p.m., residents of Tuckahoe Road and Wyandot Court were allowed to return home while many others in Walkers Woods and Avalon remained evacuated.

The fire is still a concern, burning near Avalon and spreading across nearby land towards Highway 90 and International Drive. HCFR is especially focused on areas behind Birnamwood Court for any needed evacuations based on fire conditions.

While not currently under evacuation orders, residents of Bellegrove should stay alert and be ready to evacuate if necessary.

HCFR emphasizes that in case of an evacuation, public safety personnel will go door-to-door and use PA systems to make sure everyone is informed. Residents can also get updates through Code Red notifications and social media.

Maria Rivera, a resident of Walkers Woods, described her fright when she spotted flames outside her home. “You see this on TV, and you never think it’s going to be you. I’m just thankful my house is still here,” she said.

For those living in Carolina Forest between Carolina Forest Boulevard and Highway 90, it’s wise to make a safety plan for the night:

• Sign up for Code Red emergency alerts
• Prepare a “go-bag” with essentials like food, medication, and important documents
• Keep an eye on weather updates and local news

If you are ordered to evacuate, act quickly, take only what you really need, and follow instructions from emergency services. If you find yourself in immediate danger, don’t hesitate to call 911.

The situation remains active with crews working hard to control the blaze. Local authorities and the South Carolina Forestry Commission are on site. They are using heavy machinery to clear brush and drones to monitor the fire’s behavior.

Currently, no buildings have been lost, and thankfully there are no reported injuries, although some residents have seen minor damage to their properties.

To ensure access for emergency responders, it’s recommended that all non-essential residents avoid the affected areas.

International Drive has been closed between Highway 90 and the schools to assist in the response efforts to the wildfire.

Firefighters are taking breaks at the Carolina Forest Community Church, where volunteers are providing meals and drinks.

For those who need shelter, the Carolina Forest Recreation Center located at 2254 Carolina Forest Boulevard is open overnight, offering cots and food for evacuees.

VCA Palmetto Animal Hospital is also available for anyone needing to board pets during this time; you can reach them at 843-903-1900.

A statewide burn ban has been implemented by the SC Forestry Commission due to wildfire risks.

Finally, Home of the Hand Car Wash has offered parking space for those evacuating. For arrangements, contact Dean at 845-801-3882. Additionally, Vacation Myrtle Beach is providing discounted hotel stays for those displaced from March 1 through March 6.