South Korea Battles Devastating Wildfires, Worst in Decades

South Korea Battles Devastating Wildfires, Worst in Decades

South Korea is facing its worst wildfire crisis in decades, with wind-driven blazes ravaging the country's southern regions. The fires have killed at least 24 people, destroyed over 200 structures, and forced 27,000 to evacuate their homes.

The fires, which began last Friday, have spread rapidly due to strong winds and dry conditions. They are the third largest in South Korea's history in terms of land burned, covering over 43,330 acres.

Acting President Han Duck-soo has called the situation "unprecedented" and urged all efforts to be focused on extinguishing the flames. Over 4,600 firefighters, soldiers, and other personnel are battling the blazes with the help of 130 helicopters. However, strong winds continue to hamper their efforts.

The fires have caused widespread damage, destroying homes, businesses, and an ancient Buddhist temple. They have also killed a pilot whose helicopter crashed during firefighting efforts.

The cause of the fires is still under investigation, but officials suspect human error may be to blame. Some believe the fires may have been started by people clearing overgrown grass or by sparks from welding work.

The government has raised its wildfire warning to the highest level, requiring local governments to assign more workers to emergency response, tighten entry restrictions for forests and parks, and recommend that military units withhold live-fire exercises.

The wildfires are a stark reminder of the dangers of climate change and the need for better fire prevention measures. With temperatures rising and dry conditions becoming more common, the risk of wildfires is likely to increase in the future.

The fires are concentrated in the southeastern towns of Andong, Uiseong, Sancheong, and Ulsan.

The blaze in Uiseong destroyed nearly half of the structures at Gounsa Temple, including two state-designated treasures.

The Justice Ministry evacuated 500 inmates from a detention center in Cheongsong as a precaution.

The Korea Forest Service has raised its wildfire warning to the highest level nationwide.

The government suspects human error may be to blame for the fires.

Yonhap News Agency

The Korea Herald

The Korea Times

BBC News

Reuters

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