HORRY COUNTY -- Update: Horry County Fire Rescue has now asked that residents refrain from outdoor burning due to several small brush fires that started Monday morning and afternoon.
"We are taking every precaution necessary to protect the residents of Horry County," stated Garry Alderman, fire chief of Horry County Fire Rescue. "It is imperative that when weather conditions such as these arise, that we refrain from burning, in order to prevent and control wildfires in our area."
Earlier Monday, First Alert Meteorologist Darren Stack explained why the fire danger is so high:
Even with all of the rain and snow the Carolinas have seen over the past few weeks, there is an elevated fire growth potential across our area today. With strong southwesterly winds from 15-25 mph, gusts over 30 mph possible, and very dry air across the area, the potential for fires is elevated.
Wildfires have already become prevalent across the Carolinas this year and the necessary precautions need to be taken when burning. Residential regulations regarding debris burning require you to contact the South Carolina Forestry Commission before burning. It is strongly urged that any burning should be held off until conditions improve in the next day or so when the winds diminish. If you plan on burning today, you are to use extreme caution and take all necessary steps in order to control the fire.
With the second anniversary of the North Myrtle Beach wildfire approaching in April, it is imperative to remember to take all precautions to avoid the fire from spreading.
