Seoul, March 27 (IANS) – South Korea is grappling with its worst-ever wildfires, which have ravaged the southeastern province of North Gyeongsang, leaving at least 26 people dead and injuring 30 others. Firefighters, supported by helicopters, are struggling to contain the blaze that has already consumed approximately 36,000 hectares of woodland since it erupted last Friday.
The scale of destruction has surpassed the 23,794 hectares burned in the 2000 east coast wildfires, previously the most devastating in the nation’s history. The ongoing blazes have forced the evacuation of around 37,000 residents, with 29,911 displaced from the Uiseong and Andong areas alone.
Government Response and Relief Efforts
Acting South Korean President Han Duck-soo has directed acting Interior Minister Ko Ki-dong to oversee relief efforts on the ground until the situation is brought under control. Expressing concern for the elderly victims, including those in nursing hospitals, Han emphasized the need for a robust support system to ensure the well-being of affected individuals and prevent burnout among firefighting personnel and volunteers.
Authorities resumed their firefighting efforts early Thursday, deploying helicopters, fire trucks, and emergency personnel in Uiseong County, located approximately 180 kilometers southeast of Seoul. However, adverse weather conditions, including strong winds, have hindered containment efforts.
Impact on Infrastructure and Heritage Sites
The wildfires have severely impacted infrastructure, causing power outages for nearly 2,500 households in Andong, with 177 homes still awaiting restoration. Water supply disruptions have also been reported for the second consecutive day, prompting the city government to distribute bottled water and emergency supplies.
In Yeongdeok County, key facilities have suffered extensive damage, including a burned-down water purification plant and a disabled power substation. Communication services were also disrupted overnight before being restored early Thursday.
The fires have also threatened UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Hahoe Folk Village and the Byeongsan Seowon Confucian Academy. While authorities reported some easing of the fires in these areas overnight, concerns remain over the continued threat posed by shifting winds and dry conditions.
Ongoing Firefighting and Weather Forecast
Forestry officials have deployed helicopters to affected areas, but challenging weather conditions are delaying their full utilization. Weather forecasts indicate that approximately 5 mm of rain is expected in North Gyeongsang Province, which could aid firefighting efforts.
As of now, more than 15,400 displaced individuals remain unable to return home, and an estimated 2,448 houses have been damaged. The South Korean government continues to mobilize resources to contain the wildfires and support affected communities.
Authorities remain on high alert as the situation evolves, with efforts ongoing to prevent further loss of life and property.
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