South Korea wildfire map: These cities are most affected as thousands are forced to evacuate
Wildfires in South Korea have intensified, becoming the worst natural disaster in history with 28 fatalities and extensive damage across multiple regions.
South Korea’s blazes have burnt twice as large in a day and officials have described them as the worst natural fire disaster in the country’s history.
With at least 28 fatalities reported and historic temples destroyed, the infernos continue to devastate multiple regions, forcing thousands to evacuate.
More than 38,000 hectares (93,900 acres) of Uiseong County alone has burned or was still on fire. It is the country’s largest single fire ever, exceeding the previous record of 24,000 hectares (59,000 acres) caused by a March 2000 blaze.
“We are nationally in a critical situation with numerous casualties because of the unprecedented rapid spread of forest fires,” Acting President Han Duck-soo stated during a government response meeting.
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South Korean cities and regions most affected by the wildfire
Uiseong: The epicentre of the largest wildfire, Uiseong, has suffered extensive damage as flames spread rapidly to surrounding areas. The blaze has forced thousands of residents to flee from the area and emergency staff are unable to contain the flames.
Andong: Strong winds blow the flames closer to residential and historical areas and UNESCO World Heritage sites and historical landmarks are at risk.
Yeongdeok: One of the hardest-hit regions, Yeongdeok has suffered casualties and huge land loss as the fires rage across its landscape.
Sancheong and Hadong: The wildfires here have reached Jirisan National Park, causing immense environmental damage.
Ulju: The Onyang and Eonyang areas of Ulju have reported multiple fire incidents.
Yeongyang, Cheongsong, Gimhae, Okcheon and Yeongdong are the other cities majorly affected by the ghastly wildfires, per NASA's Earth Data.
Authorities hope rain will control the fires in Gyeongsangbuk Province and south Gyeongsang Province, parts of Uiseong County, where rain is expected to arrive.
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Yonhap News Agency reported that the extreme spring heat that fueled the wildfires was ending with a front trailing a cold front. Temperatures are expected to drop significantly in the coming days, falling below seasonal averages.
Yet officials are wary the rain so far has been light and scattered and has not been heavy enough downpours to put out the flames.
