Raging Wildfires Torch South Korea's Southeast
Southeast South Korea deals with deadly wildfires, prompting mass evacuation of thousands
South Korea is struggling to control a devastating wildfire outbreak in the country's southeast, with over two-dozen infernos wreaking havoc since the weekend, leaving four people dead, and forcing thousands to flee their homes.
As of midnight on Sunday, a mammoth force of nearly 9,000 firefighters, police officers, and civilian workers, accompanied by 120 helicopters, were deployed to five separate regions to quell the blazes. Despite the formidable efforts, only four of the wildfires remained unabated by Monday morning, due to the challenging conditions of dry, windy weather.
The catastrophe began with a spark from a lawnmower igniting the initial wildfire in Sancheong County, South Gyeongsang Province, approximately 300 kilometers south of Seoul, according to the Interior Safety Ministry's report. Tragically, four civil workers dispatched to combat the inferno lost their lives, as reported by Yonhap news agency. As of Monday morning, the fire persisted, devouring more than 1,464 hectares (3,600 acres).
Fires sparked on Saturday in Euiseong County, North Gyeongsang Province; the Ulju district of Ulsan city; and Gimhae, South Gyeongsang, continued to burn through Monday. The fire in Euiseong was ignited by residents paying respects at a grave, and as of Monday morning, it had ravaged 6,861 hectares (nearly 17,000 acres).
More than 2,740 people have been forced to evacuate due to the fires, with the majority seeking shelter as of Monday. About 162 buildings have sustained damage, including a temple in Euiseong.
Acting prime minister Choi Sang-mok issued orders on Saturday for the forest service to do everything in their power to evacuate citizens and ensure the safety of the firefighters on the front lines. The government declared a state of emergency for Ulsan city, South and North Gyeongsang provinces on Saturday.
Wildfires are common during the dry season, particularly in February, March, and April.
Amidst this crisis, South Korea faces extraordinary wildfires. These unruly infernos challenge the nation as they scorch thousands of hectares, leaving destruction in their wake, and forcing citizens to seek refuge.
Wildfires in Asia, particularly South Korea, have caused significant damage, with over 1,464 hectares burned in Seoul alone as of Monday morning. The excessive wildfires have been ongoing since the weekend, causing the deaths of four civil servants and displacing more than 2,740 people. Despite the efforts of nearly 9,000 firefighters, police officers, and civilian workers, combined with 120 helicopters, several wildfires remain uncontrolled due to challenging weather conditions.
