Wildfires sweep across the Carolinas and New Jersey

Wildfires in North Carolina regions still recovering from Hurricane Helene have forced mandatory evacuations in parts of Polk County. The three fires have collectively burned over 4.7 square miles and destroyed several homes.

Only one of the fires is 50% contained. Officials warned residents to evacuate quickly due to worsening visibility and potential road blockages.

Meanwhile, South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency as firefighters battled the human-caused Table Rock Fire, which grew to over 300 acres with no containment.

The downed timber from the recent hurricane is fueling the blaze, forcing voluntary evacuations of 100 homes.

A wildfire in New Jersey’s Wharton State Forest burned 2.7 square miles and prompted the evacuation of two campgrounds. That fire is 50% contained as officials investigate its cause.