WILDFIRE UPDATE: 3/5/25 at 6 p.m.
Horry County received some much needed rain today, along with strong winds.
The rain helped tamp down some of the Covington Drive Fire, but winds will continue to dry up the vegetation again, and flare-ups are expected to continue, as Horry County Fire Rescue, South Carolina Forestry Commission and supporting crews from across South Carolina work toward containment.
This large-scale wildfire has a reported acreage of 2,059 along with 44% containment, currently, per SCFC. SCFC also pulled the burning ban in South Carolina, leaving a ban in place for Horry and Georgetown counties. Aside from the statewide ban, there is additionally a burn ban in the unincorporated areas of Horry County.
No open burning is permitted in Horry County. In fact, doing so is extremely dangerous.
Crews are surveying for fallen trees. Off-road movement is somewhat hindered, due to muddy terrain, but the wildfire areas are expected to dry out.
After the severe weather moved through the area, HCFR's Safety Officers and Fire Investigation Unit were able to fly drones above the impacted area for assessment.
International Drive has reopened to traffic.
Smoke will remain present across the general Carolina Forest area of Horry County, possibly limiting visibility. Drive with caution no matter what.
HCFR appreciates all the donation offers we're receiving, but we are currently well stocked in food, snacks and drinks.
In a word, we are humbled by all the hard work of the units that have driven across the state to help these efforts in Horry County. 'Thank you' will never be enough, but for now, we want the public to know we couldn't have made the (current) progress we've made without the statewide partnerships.
Horry County Government's Public Information Office was joined by the SCFC PIO in providing media availability and answers to questions.