Wildfires Rage in Tryon, North Carolina, Prompting Evacuations

TRYON, N.C. — A rapidly spreading brush fire in Tryon, North Carolina, has led authorities to mandate evacuations as firefighters battle the inferno that began Saturday afternoon. As of 8 p.m. Sunday, March 2, the fire is 30% contained and has scorched over 500 acres.

The Polk County Fire Marshal’s Office confirmed that crews are executing back burning operations in affected areas, including Bear Creek Road and Hanging Rock Road. Firefighters are also providing structure protection and monitoring fire lines throughout the night.

Evacuations remain mandatory for residents along Warrior Drive, Meadowlark Drive, Miller Drive, Baker Road, and parts of U.S. Highway 176. Those in the surrounding areas of Jericho Drive, Stone Circle Drive, and Jessica Hope Lane are urged to evacuate voluntarily. An emergency shelter has been established at the Polk County Senior Center at 75 Carmel Lane, Columbus.

Despite rumors of the fire crossing U.S. Highway 176 towards the river, officials have stated that the blaze remains contained to the right side of the highway, progressing toward Saluda.

Polk County Emergency Communications emphasized the importance of avoiding the fire area to allow emergency responders to work efficiently. The decision to lift the evacuation order will be made after back burning operations conclude.

As conditions remain perilous, the Polk County Fire Marshal’s Office has issued a burn ban on all outdoor fires within 100 feet of any structure. This comes amid ongoing red flag warnings across the region, with dangerously low humidity and dry vegetation contributing to the fire’s spread.

Firefighters are facing challenging conditions, with wind gusts complicating their efforts. North Carolina Forest Service is conducting air drops and back burns for better containment, while monitoring smoke levels as operations continue.

“Our fire crews are working diligently through the night to safeguard homes and contain the fire,” said a spokesperson for Polk County Fire Department. “Community cooperation is key during these interventions.”

In related news, several other fires have ignited across the Southeastern U.S., prompting Governor Henry McMaster of South Carolina to declare a state of emergency as firefighters contend with similar conditions in that state. The Carolina Forest fire, one of the most significant in South Carolina, has burned over 1,600 acres and is currently 30% contained.

As the wildfire situation develops, residents are advised to stay informed and adhere to evacuation orders to ensure their safety.