COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster has announced that South Carolina was able to secure a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). State leaders say this money will help ensure vital resources are available to suppress the Covington Drive fire burning near Myrtle Beach. 

The FMAG, which is funded through the federal Disaster Relief Fund, allows local, state, and tribal agencies to get up to 75% of fire suppression costs reimbursed. This includes expenses related to personnel, equipment, and firefighting operations such as air tankers, bulldozers, and additional fire crews.

As of today, the Covington Drive Fire which ignited shortly after 2:30 PM on Saturday, March 1, has burned more than 2,050 acres.

South Carolinians are urged to stay alert and adhere to guidance from officials as firefighting efforts continue.