North and South Carolina: US authorities issued mass evacuation orders in the states of North and South Carolina, after more than 175 fires broke out, amid stormy and dry weather conditions that complicate firefighting efforts.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency to ensure the necessary resources are provided to support fire and emergency teams across the state.

Authorities reported that the massive fires that broke out last night extended over an area of 4,200 acres, and affected several counties, including Horry, Spartanburg, Oconee, Union, and Pickens. About 30% of the fires have been contained, while the flames have consumed more than 1,600 acres so far.

Experts attribute these fires to the heat wave and drought caused by the El Ni±o weather phenomenon, amid warnings of the impact of climate change in increasing the frequency of natural disasters.