WILDFIRE UPDATE: 3/4/25 at 8 p.m.
The South Carolina Forestry Commission is reporting a total of 2,059 acres involved with this Covington Drive Fire incident in the Carolina Forest community, with 30% contained.
Crews from SCFC and Horry County Fire Rescue have been working diligently toward containment since the incident began on Saturday afternoon. Helicopters made air drops of water for much of the day, significantly helping efforts.
HCFR and SCFC crews on the ground have been using hand tools, water lines, sprinkler systems and re-inforcing break lines.
Following today's air drops, HCFR Safety Officers flew drones to help assess the wildfire activity.
Heavy overnight smoke is expected to blanket the general Carolina Forest area, limiting visibility for residents and motorists.
Going into potential severe weather for all of Horry County Wednesday, with gusts of wind expected to exceed 50 mph, beginning around 9 a.m. and expected to last through mid-afternoon, it's important to note, residents should be prepared for emergencies that may arise.
Horry County Emergency Management is aiding the HCFR/SCFC Command Post at Station 39 (Carolina Forest), monitoring anticipated weather impacts. Operations will adjust as needed, depending on the severity of the expected weather.
As is always the case with potential severe weather, we're asking residents and guests to remain weather aware, getting information from trusted public safety sources, HCEMD and local media partner meteorologists.
Horry County Police Department will be helping to limit access to neighborhoods near wildfire locations to make sure firefighting crews can get in and out quickly and safely.
International Drive will remain closed until further notice, with the fire gates down. HCPD has assisted with roadway closure signs on International Drive and smoke alert signs on Highway 90.
HCFR is humbled and appreciative of the non-stop support of the people and communities who make up Horry County during this incident.
Thank you!