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Wildfire Erupts at Table Rock State Park; Teenagers Blamed

A wildfire spreads across Table Rock State Park with aircraft dumping water to combat the flames.

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News Summary

A significant wildfire at Table Rock State Park in South Carolina has ignited due to the negligent actions of four teenagers, spreading over 110 acres with 0% containment. Firefighters, supported by aerial teams, are working tirelessly to control the blaze amidst challenging conditions. Local residents face voluntary evacuation as state officials implement a burning ban and a state of emergency. Additionally, the investigation into the incident continues as the park closes all trails, reflecting the serious consequences of such negligence in outdoor activities.

Wildfire Erupts at Table Rock State Park, Teen Hikers Blamed

Pickens County, South Carolina – A stunning and unfortunate incident has unfolded at the beautiful Table Rock State Park, where a negligent act by four teenagers has led to a significant wildfire that ignited on March 21, 2025. The blaze began on a Friday and has rapidly spread, consuming more than 110 acres by Saturday evening. As of now, firefighters are faced with the tough reality that the fire is still at 0% containment.

A Coalition of Support in Action

Emergency management officials are tirelessly working to manage the situation, with over 30 personnel from various agencies involved in the firefighting efforts. Among those lending a helping hand are members from the South Carolina Forestry Commission, The Nature Conservancy, Greenville Water, the USDA Forest Service, and local fire departments. Their collaboration is crucial, especially given the steep, mountainous terrain and the obstructions created by downed timber from Hurricane Helene, which complicates access for firefighting teams and significantly hinders the establishment of effective firebreaks.

Wings in the Sky, Water on the Fire

To tackle the stubborn wildfire from above, firefighting teams have called in four aircraft to aid their efforts. An airplane has been dedicated to surveying the fire, while two single-engine air tankers have been deployed to drop water on hot spots. A helicopter using a Bambi bucket is also making water drops, adding an aerial dimension to ground efforts. Despite these resources, the challenging conditions from strong winds and very low humidity – dropping below 20% – have only intensified the fire’s destructive path.

Precautions and Public Safety

In response to the ongoing situation, local residents have been advised to evacuate voluntarily, as officials are going door-to-door to ensure that everyone is aware of the potential danger posed by the spreading wildfire. Currently, there are no reported injuries or threats to structures in the surrounding area, which is a small relief amid the chaos.

To prevent further incidents, Governor Henry McMaster has implemented a statewide burning ban that prohibits any outdoor burning, including campfires, yard debris burning, and recreational fires. In a move to further bolster firefighting efforts, he has declared a state of emergency, allowing quicker mobilization of resources for combating the fire.

Spot Fires and the Investigation Ahead

The fire has created a challenging landscape, with spot fires emerging due to embers landing outside the initial fire area, leading to new ignitions. This ongoing threat complicates the efforts to gain control over the situation. Meanwhile, a concurrent search for a missing hiker, Stephanie Womacks, who disappeared earlier in March at the park, has been suspended due to the dangerous conditions created by the wildfire.

Closure of Trails and Ongoing Investigation

As the situation continues to evolve, officials have made the decision to close all trails at Table Rock State Park until further notice, prioritizing public safety. Investigations into the incident are currently ongoing, and charges against the identified irresponsible teenagers are in the works as authorities seek to hold those accountable for this preventable disaster.

This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks associated with outdoor activities and the potential consequences of negligence. Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay informed and prioritize safety as the brave firefighters continue their critical work in battling this wildfire.