News Summary
South Carolina faces a critical situation as mandatory evacuations are ordered for residents in Greenville and Pickens counties due to escalating wildfires. The Persimmons Ridge Fire and Table Rock Fire have breached containment lines and are growing rapidly, impacting over 1,400 structures. Emergency crews are actively engaged in firefighting efforts, while community support for evacuees is being organized. Health and safety concerns are raised due to poor air quality, and citizens are encouraged to stay informed as the situation develops.
South Carolina is facing a critical situation as the South Carolina Forestry Commission has announced mandatory evacuations for residents in Greenville and Pickens counties due to rapidly growing wildfires. The decision comes as firefighters contend with two significant blazes—the Persimmons Ridge Fire and the Table Rock Fire—that have breached containment lines amid strong winds.
The fires have been raging for six days, with the Table Rock Fire nearly doubling in size to 4,556 acres, while the Persimmons Ridge Fire has expanded to 1,553 acres. Currently, both fires are at 0% containment, prompting emergency officials to take drastic measures. Mandatory evacuations impact over 1,400 structures, particularly in the vicinity of Oil Camp Creek Road and River Falls Road.
As part of the evacuation response, a designated center has been set up at Marietta First Baptist Church, located at 2936 Geer Hwy, Marietta, SC 29661, to assist those displaced by the fires. Emergency crews, including 148 firefighters from the SC State Fire, are actively engaged in firefighting efforts supported by various firefighting vehicles and specialized equipment.
Community Response and Assistance
Local authorities are collaborating with organizations such as the Red Cross to provide support for evacuees. The Pickens County Administrator, Ken Roper, is expected to deliver a video update regarding the county’s strategic response to the wildfires. Citizens can also contribute by donating supplies for first responders at Market at The Mill in Pickens. Additionally, Cleveland Park Animal Hospital is offering free boarding and vaccinations for pets belonging to those who have evacuated.
Health and Safety Concerns
Residents in the affected areas are advised to limit outdoor activities due to deteriorating air quality associated with the wildfires. Weather forecasts predict continued dry conditions, raising concerns about winds that could further exacerbate the spread of the flames. A Red Flag Fire Alert has been issued due to high fire danger in the region.
Wildfire Origins and Future Projections
Officials believe that the Table Rock Fire may have been ignited due to negligence from teenagers, and those responsible may face legal charges. Firefighting strategies include creating controlled burn areas to effectively manage the fires and prevent further spread. Air support will be utilized to enhance containment efforts as firefighters coordinate their actions under challenging conditions.
For up-to-date information on evacuation procedures and fire status, residents can call the Table Rock Complex Information Line at 864-467-3428. Meanwhile, Governor Henry McMaster is scheduled to hold a media briefing on March 28 to address the state’s response to these wildfires.
Authorities continue to stress the importance of staying informed via social media updates from local government offices as the situation develops. The community’s collective efforts in supporting each other during this emergency, alongside the dedication of emergency responders, are crucial as Greenville and Pickens counties navigate this challenging period.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Greenville Online: Live Updates on Wildfires
- WYFF4: Persimmons Ridge Fire Evacuations
- The State: South Carolina Wildfires
- WSPA: Evacuations Due to Table Rock Fire
- Wikipedia: Wildfire
