Fiery Sunday in the Carolinas: Winds, Dry Weather Fuel Wildfires

The Carolinas faced a challenging Sunday as wildfires raged across the region. Dry, windy conditions made it tough for firefighters to control the blazes. The Carolina Forest Fire, near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, grew rapidly, doubling in size overnight to 1, 200 acres. Officials had to issue a statewide burn ban as many wildfires broke out across the state. The National Weather Service warned that the fire threat would continue near Wilmington, North Carolina, and in parts of South Carolina. In western North Carolina, a brush fire near the towns of Tryon and Saluda spread quickly up a mountain. The fire, caused by a fallen power line, grew to 400 acres by late Saturday. Residents near the highway were told to evacuate as fire crews worked to protect homes. The fire was 0% contained, and several fire departments were called to the scene. A passenger on a flight into Myrtle Beach captured a terrifying view of the smoke and fire from the plane window. The sight was described as "quite terrifying" by the passenger. This was not the only wildfire in the region. Two more wildfires burned in Buncombe County, North Carolina. The dry conditions and lack of recent rainfall kept the wildfire danger high. Despite weaker winds and cooler temperatures on Sunday, the dry air and vegetation posed a significant risk. Winds were expected to diminish overnight, with temperatures approaching freezing by Monday morning. Lighter winds and more humid air were forecast to return by Tuesday, bringing temperatures close to 60 degrees. The situation in the Carolinas highlights the ongoing challenge of wildfires in the region. Dry conditions and strong winds create a perfect storm for these fires to spread rapidly. Firefighters and residents must stay vigilant and prepared to respond to these threats. It's crucial for everyone to understand the risks and take necessary precautions to prevent further fires.

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