Oak Island sees ashes from Horry County fire

Horry County fire ashes made their way to Oak Island. A video was shot at the South East 74th public beach access. Residents said the ash has progressively washed further from the shore line.

The black flakes first appeared a few days ago, making the water appear dirty to beach goers. Some are concerned about the environmental impact. “There’s lots of children around here and you don’t know what the after effects are going to be after the ashes left there,” said Oak Island resident Debbie Allen.

Officials with the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries said the ash is not harmful, unless it came from wood that was treated with chemicals. If that were the case, it could potentially be harmful, but there’s no way to know for sure.

Oak Island Public Works has no plans to clean it up. Oak Island’s director said they are going to let nature take its course.