Causes of the Fire

The fire was sparked by a discarded cigarette butt and ignited nearby dry vegetation, including pine straw and grass.

High-Risk Areas

Several areas in the Myrtle Beach area are prone to wildfires, including the coastal regions near Ocean Boulevard and the marshy areas near Hunting Island State Park.

Firefighting Efforts

The fire was quickly brought under control by firefighters using water and foam from nearby hydrants.

Wildfire Spread

The fire spread rapidly due to strong winds, dry conditions, and the presence of flammable materials such as pine straw and dry leaves.

Fire Damage

Major damage was caused by the fire, with many homes and businesses affected, including the iconic Myrtle Beach Pier being severely damaged.

Consequences for Local Businesses

The fire had significant economic impacts on local businesses, particularly those in the tourism industry.

Treatment of Human Causes

In response to the incident, the National Park Service began an investigation into how many human-caused fires have been reported at Myrtle Beach beaches and nearby areas over the years.

Fire Investigation

The fire was investigated by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and other regulatory agencies to identify factors contributing to its start and spread.

Lessons Learned

The investigation revealed several key lessons, including that human-caused fires can be a major cause of wildfires in coastal areas with dry vegetation.