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Mandatory Evacuations Issued Due to South Carolina Fires

South Carolina Wildfire Response

News Summary

Residents in Greenville and Pickens counties are facing mandatory evacuations due to the Persimmons Ridge and Table Rock fires. The South Carolina Forestry Commission has issued these orders as containment lines have been breached, exacerbated by strong winds. An evacuation center has been set up at Marietta First Baptist Church. The Table Rock Fire has expanded to 10,894 acres and is only 9% contained, while the Persimmons Ridge Fire is currently at 24% containment. Local officials are urging residents to remain informed about safety measures and evacuation protocols.

South Carolina is currently facing a critical situation as the South Carolina Forestry Commission has issued mandatory immediate evacuation orders for residents in Greenville and Pickens counties due to the ongoing Persimmons Ridge Fire and the Table Rock Fire. These evacuations were necessitated after the Persimmons Ridge Fire breached containment lines, largely influenced by strong winds.

The SCFC has provided a full list of affected areas on its Facebook page. Residents are urged to stay informed about the evacuation details to ensure their safety. An evacuation center has been established at Marietta First Baptist Church, located at 2936 Geer Hwy, Marietta, SC 29661, to assist those displaced by the fires.

In addition to the mandatory evacuations in Greenville and Pickens counties, the Table Rock Fire has expanded significantly, now covering approximately 10,894 acres in South Carolina and 574 acres in North Carolina. As of now, the Table Rock Fire is reported to be only 9% contained, while the Persimmons Ridge Fire is 24% contained. These fires were both ignited by human activity, intensifying the urgency for effective containment measures.

Current Situation and Response Efforts

Currently, there are over 758 structures under evacuation orders, with reports stating that 8 individuals were registered at the evacuation shelter as of the latest update. Firefighters have been actively engaged in containment efforts; however, the recent doubling in size of the Table Rock Fire poses a significant challenge. Local officials are working tirelessly to manage the situation, but strong winds continue to hinder these efforts.

In Transylvania County, North Carolina, the mandatory evacuation orders have been lifted, although some residents remain under a yellow status that suggests caution. Meanwhile, evacuation guidelines in Pickens County have transitioned from mandatory to voluntary, but residents are still encouraged to remain vigilant and to have an evacuation plan ready.

Health and Safety Concerns

Officials have also raised concerns regarding air quality in the affected areas. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities, particularly those with chronic respiratory conditions, as air quality has been reported as hazardous. A burn ban is currently in effect, reinforcing the need for caution in the region.

In light of this catastrophic situation, Governor Henry McMaster is scheduled to hold a media briefing to address the public and provide further updates about the fires and the government’s response. Residents utilizing the shelters are encouraged to bring at least 72 hours’ worth of supplies and any essential items they may need.

Community Support and Donations

Community support is critical during this time, and donations for first responders in Pickens County are being accepted as part of the collective effort to tackle the fires and support those affected.

As containment efforts continue, local officials stress the importance of prioritizing safety and staying updated with local emergency services for real-time information and directives. The situation remains fluid, and residents are reminded to take all necessary precautions and heed the evacuation orders issued by authorities.

In conclusion, both the Persimmons Ridge and Table Rock fires present significant dangers to public safety and infrastructure. The ongoing response from fire crews and local governments underscores a robust commitment to managing these wildfires while keeping residents informed and safe.