SC Wildfire Blamed on Burning of Yard Debris

By John Johnson, Newser Staff

Posted Apr 24, 2009 1:56 PM CDT

(Newser) – Investigators say the wildfire tearing through South Carolina was set off by someone burning yard debris, the AP reports. The fire apparently rekindled days later, then burned through dry scrub and trees into North Myrtle Beach. The fire was about 50% contained this afternoon, and the tourist area of Myrtle Beach remains unscathed, but officials warned the situation could change quickly if winds pick up.

“Where we think we have things secured, that could all go out the window,” said one. The fire, the state’s worst in more than 30 years, has burned through about 30 square miles, destroying 70 homes and ravaging 100 more. The current damage estimate is $8.3 million. Authorities have yet to formally charge the alleged fire-starter, who faces about $700 in fines.

Dennis Chase turns away from the heat of a fire in Horry County, SC, yesterday. (AP Photo)

Firefighters work to put out hotspots in North Myrtle Beach. (AP Photo)

Firefighters work to put out hot spots in North Myrtle Beach. (AP Photo)

A coast guard crew monitors the Intracoastal Waterway in North Myrtle Beach, SC. The waterway is closed because of the wildfire. (AP Photos)

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SC Man: Don't Blame Me, Blame Fire Dept.

Says firefighters checked his home twice

Wildfires Destroy Dozens of SC Homes

2,500 evacuated in North Myrtle Beach area

Romney Returns: $6.2M in Taxes on $42.6M

No income from wages; he'll pay 15.4% on last year's income

Santorum Gets Glitter-Bombed

Gay-rights activists, Occupiers storm primary night rally

How Gingrich Won SC— Conservatives

'Very' and 'Somewhat' conservatives went Gingrich, 'liberals' went Romney

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South Carolina • wildfires • Myrtle Beach

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[ By Views ]

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SC Man: Don't Blame Me, Blame Fire Dept.

Says firefighters checked his home twice

Wildfires Destroy Dozens of SC Homes

2,500 evacuated in North Myrtle Beach area

Romney Returns: $6.2M in Taxes on $42.6M

No income from wages; he'll pay 15.4% on last year's income

Santorum Gets Glitter-Bombed

Gay-rights activists, Occupiers storm primary night rally

How Gingrich Won SC— Conservatives

'Very' and 'Somewhat' conservatives went Gingrich, 'liberals' went Romney

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Newser By Users

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