WHEREAS, wildfires currently burning in Horry County near Highway 501 have consumed over 1,000 acres and continue to spread and burn uncontrolled: and

WHEREAS, wildfire losses and commensurate threats to life and property in Horry County have reached emergency proportions; and

WHEREAS, by reasons of drought, low humidity, high winds, and other conditions, the forests, woodlands, farms, homes, businesses, and associated properties in Horry County are in serious danger of fires; and

WHEREAS, forest fires constitute a clear and present danger to public safety and welfare and to the property of citizens of this State.

NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the power and authority vested in me as Governor, pursuant to the Constitution and Laws of the State of South Carolina, 1976, as amended, I hereby declare that a state of emergency exists and has existed in Horry County, South Carolina since June 16, 2002. I also hereby direct that certain assets of the South Carolina National Guard, at the discretion of the Adjutant General and in coordination with SCEMD, be placed on state duty and order the utilization of the National Guard’s fire suppression personnel to take all necessary action to provide Horry County with the delivery of critical equipment and services.

The provisions of this Executive Order shall remain in full force and effect until further order of this office.