(MENAFN) Raging wildfires across North and South Carolina have triggered widespread evacuations and prompted emergency declarations as of Wednesday, with dry conditions and lingering hurricane damage fueling the blazes.

Polk County, North Carolina, has been particularly devastated, with approximately 250 households evacuated and over 20 homes and outbuildings demolished, as reported by the county public information officer Kellie Cannon. The fires, intensified by dry weather, strong winds, and debris from Hurricane Helene, which struck the region in late September 2024, continue to spread rapidly.

Bo Dorsett, a representative for the North Carolina Forest Service, noted that hurricane recovery efforts remain ongoing for a large portion of the population, highlighting the compounding impact of the recent natural disasters. Ongoing evacuations are being carried out as dry conditions sparked additional fires in western North Carolina.

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein called on residents to remain vigilant, stating, "Please continue to pay attention to emergency alerts and evacuation orders if you need to leave your homes."

Authorities are working to contain the fires and provide support to displaced residents.

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