Seoul, March 26 (IANS) – Firefighters in South Korea are facing immense challenges in containing a series of wildfires that have ravaged the country’s southeastern region, claiming at least 24 lives. Despite extensive firefighting efforts, strong winds and dry weather continue to exacerbate the situation, hindering containment measures.
The fires, which ignited last Friday in Sancheong County, South Gyeongsang Province, have rapidly spread northeast, affecting multiple regions, including Uiseong, Andong, Cheongsong, Yeongyang, and Yeongdeok. Authorities have mobilized a massive response force, including scores of firefighting helicopters, 5,000 personnel, and approximately 560 pieces of equipment, but the flames persist.
Rising Death Toll and Widespread Devastation
As of 4 p.m. Wednesday, 20 of the confirmed 24 casualties were reported in Uiseong, while four were from Sancheong, according to the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters. Previous reports indicated fatalities across North Gyeongsang Province, with deaths in Andong, Cheongsong, Yeongyang, and Yeongdeok. Many victims perished as they attempted to flee, including four individuals found burned to death on a road in Yeongyang late Tuesday night.
Concerns Over Further Spread
The fires pose an increasing threat to eastern coastal regions, with officials fearing the potential spread to Uljin, home to a major nuclear power plant. Authorities are particularly concerned about unpredictable wind shifts, which could accelerate the wildfire’s progression. While initial forecasts indicated an eastward spread, recent observations suggest southerly and southwesterly winds, further complicating containment efforts.
Large-Scale Damage and Cultural Loss
The wildfires have already scorched approximately 17,000 hectares of forest and destroyed 209 homes and factories. Among the losses is Goun Temple in Uiseong, an ancient Buddhist temple dating back to 681 during the Silla Dynasty. Fortunately, national treasures stored at the temple had been relocated before the fire reached the site.
Adding to the tragedy, a firefighting helicopter crashed in Uiseong while battling the blaze, resulting in the death of the pilot.
Authorities on High Alert
Acting President Han Duck-soo has declared the wildfires among the worst in the nation’s history, urging an all-out response to prevent further destruction. Meanwhile, officials remain on high alert as the fires edge closer to the historic Hahoe Folk Village in Andong, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for preserving Joseon Dynasty-era traditions. Authorities have positioned firefighting helicopters near the village as a preemptive measure, with the fire now just 5 kilometers away.
Efforts to bring the fires under control continue, but with adverse weather conditions persisting, authorities warn that the situation remains dire. Residents in affected areas have been urged to remain vigilant as emergency response teams work tirelessly to limit further devastation.
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