SC officials warn about smoke from southern fires

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — South Carolina health officials are warning residents in about a dozen counties about possible health effects from wildfires in the region.

The Department of Health and Environmental Control said Tuesday smoke has been noticeable in a number of South Carolina counties along the state’s borders with Georgia and North Carolina and in the central part of the state.

Officials say the smoke can irritate eyes and lungs and exacerbate existing health problems. People with respiratory issues are urged to limit time outdoors and keep windows and doors closed.

A fire in Georgia’s Okefenokee Swamp has consumed nearly 450 square miles since igniting two months ago. At least three homes have been destroyed by a fire in Bladen County, N.C. A fire in Horry County has burned more than 770 acres.