Anna Hartz
Unstoppable Wildfires in South Korea: Thousands Flee as Fire Spreads
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Wildfires are a natural disaster that can destroy everything in their path within minutes.
Strong winds, dry weather, and human activity often make them worse. South Korea is now dealing with one of the worst wildfires in its history.
The flames have already taken lives, destroyed homes, and forced thousands of people to flee. Firefighters are battling nonstop, but the situation remains dangerous, reports Ziare.
Authorities confirmed that 18 people have died so far. Among them were four firefighters and government workers who lost their lives in Sancheong.
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Fast-moving flames, pushed by strong winds, made escape impossible. The fires have injured 19 others and burned more than 43,000 acres of land.
The destruction includes homes, factories, and vehicles. In Uiseong, a helicopter crashed while helping fight the fire.
Officials believe only the pilot was on board, but rescue efforts are ongoing. The situation remains unpredictable.
The fires, which started last Friday, continue to spread. Acting President Han Duck-soo warned that the damage is worse than previous wildfires.
He urged authorities to use every resource to contain the fires before the end of the week.
Nearly 27,000 people have been forced to evacuate. The largest fires are burning in Andong, Uiseong, Sancheong, and Ulsan.
Officials ordered more evacuations on Tuesday as dry winds pushed the flames closer to residential areas.
By evening, firefighters had managed to put out most of the largest fires. However, strong winds reignited them overnight, making it difficult to keep the situation under control.
The fires have also destroyed cultural landmarks. In Uiseong, nearly half of Gounsa Temple, originally built in the 7th century, has burned.
Two historically significant structures are gone. A stone Buddha statue from the 8th century was moved to safety just in time.
Authorities raised the wildfire alert to its highest level. They urged local governments to send more emergency crews and restricted access to forests and parks.
Military exercises using live fire have also been paused. Investigators suspect that some fires may have started due to human activity, including sparks from welding or people burning grass near graves.
The situation is still unfolding. Firefighters and soldiers are working around the clock with helicopters and ground crews.
Rain is expected soon, which could help slow the spread. For now, South Korea remains on high alert.
