Local businesses, tourism officials, local mayors, council members, even the governor, have all stressed that the Horry County wildfire should not scare away tourists.
Saturday, The S.C. Forestry Commission also jumped on board, saying - despite the fires - the Grand Strand is safe to visit. They say tourists might have to deal with the possible hint of smoke and occasional traffic delays, but overall the area should be considered "completely safe."
We caught up with some tourists who have been here during the fires, and say there was initial shock, but they're glad they're here.
Judy Burke and her family got to North Myrtle Beach on Thursday, just one day after the fires sparked. She said, "We flew in from Boston, and as we flew over the pilot showed us the fires, and it was just shocking. Then when we got to our hotel and the smell of smoke was everywhere, it was pretty concerning actually.. But you'd never know there was a fire now, it's beautiful."
