Air Quality Alert for Myrtle Beach: Wildfire Smoke Puts Vulnerable Groups at Risk
An air quality alert has been issued for the Myrtle Beach area as smoke from a nearby wildfire continues to spread across the region, prompting health warnings for residents—especially those in sensitive groups.
Officials say the wildfire, burning in a wooded area just west of the city, has sent thick smoke drifting over parts of Horry County. The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) issued the alert early Thursday morning, citing elevated levels of fine particulate matter in the air.
“Smoke contains microscopic particles that can get deep into your lungs and cause serious health problems,” DHEC said in a statement. “Children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or heart conditions are especially at risk.”
Residents are being advised to stay indoors as much as possible, keep windows and doors closed, and use air purifiers if available. Outdoor exercise should be avoided until air quality improves.
Several schools in the area have canceled outdoor activities, and health officials are monitoring air quality levels throughout the day. Local hospitals have reported a slight uptick in respiratory-related visits, though no major incidents have been confirmed.
Fire crews are working to contain the blaze, which has burned several acres but remains uncontained due to dry, windy conditions. Authorities are urging the public to avoid the fire zone and follow all evacuation orders if issued.
Updates will be provided as conditions change. Residents can monitor real-time air quality.
