HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW) — Hours after a sprawling Saturday wildfire forced some Carolina Forest out of their homes, evacuation orders were lifted in some areas even as flames were visible on the horizon.
By 7:30 p.m., residents of Tuckahoe Road and Wyandot Court were cleared to return home, although several other neighborhoods remained under evacuation as the 100-acre blaze shut down International Drive to Highway 90.
Horry County spokeswoman Mikayla Moskov said about 20 people were sheltering at the Carolina Forest Recreation Center, while smoke and odor from the fire were observed more than 15 miles away.
Several local businesses also offered services, including free boarding VCA Palmetto Animal Hospital and discounted rates from lodging group Visit Myrtle Beach, which said Saturday displaced residents were eligible for $49 nightly rates through March 6 at Hotel Blue and Landmark Resort.
Participants must provide proof of residence within Carolina Forest and call (866) 951-6806 to make reservations.
Horry County officials also asked people to keep 911 lines open so people facing immediate risk can quickly connect with emergency respons services.
The South Carolina Forestry Commission on Saturday also implemented a statewide burn ban.
That agency, along with state Department of Natural Resources, North Myrtle Beach Fire Rescue, Horry County Fire Rescue and Horry County police were among those that responded.
Kershaw County Fire Service personnel left the Midlands to assist Horry County through a mutual aid agreement.
* * *
Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
