A state of emergency has been declared in North and South Carolina as firefighters struggle to contain more than 170 fires burning across the state. The fires, driven by poor weather, have caused evacuations and states of emergency. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster called a state of emergency Sunday to bring in more resources to fight the fires. The fires have consumed approximately 6.6 square miles of ground, with over 175 fires reported in the state to date. One of the biggest fires occurred in the Carolina Forest neighborhood, west of Myrtle Beach, and quickly spread to 1,600 acres, doubling in size overnight. Firefighters had been able to contain 30% of the fire by Sunday night. In spite of the difficulties, there have been no reported injuries or structural damage. Non-residents have been kept away from areas affected by law enforcement checkpoints, and a Red Cross shelter has been established for displaced residents due to the fires. Four national forests in North Carolina have been affected, the biggest one being in Uwharrie National Forest. Low humidity, dry fuels, and gusty winds are making it difficult for firefighters to keep the fires under control. ack-burning is being done with helicopters dropping water and helping to keep the wildfires under control. The residents nearby can expect a lot of smoke as the crew is having a tough time keeping the flames under control. The authorities are still looking into the cause of the wildfires and are requesting people to comply with evacuation orders and avoid travel unless it is absolutely necessary. In Horry County, close to 2,000 acres of land have been burned, but thankfully, there have been no reported injuries or fatalities. State Representative Tim McGinnis has reassured residents that emergency crews are concentrating on safeguarding homes, particularly in Walkers Woods, where the risk is greatest.