Wildfires continue to devastate South Korea’s southeastern Gyeongsang region, causing rising casualties and extensive damage. Authorities are working tirelessly to control the flames and protect residents.
As of 4 p.m. Wednesday, officials confirmed 24 deaths due to the wildfires. Four people lost their lives in Sancheong, South Gyeongsang Province, while 20 fatalities occurred in Uiseong, North Gyeongsang Province. Emergency teams remain on high alert as the situation unfolds.
Tragically, at 11 a.m. Wednesday, a man in his 80s was found dead in Andong, North Gyeongsang Province. Just two hours later, at 12:54 p.m., a firefighting helicopter crashed in Uiseong, killing the pilot. These incidents highlight the growing dangers faced by both residents and emergency responders.
The fires have also left 26 people injured, with 12 in critical condition. The full extent of the injuries remains under assessment as medical teams work to provide urgent care.
Evacuations have intensified across the affected areas. As of 9 a.m. Wednesday, more than 27,000 residents had fled their homes. The fires have destroyed 209 buildings, including homes, factories, and storage facilities. Firefighters are working around the clock to limit further destruction.
Efforts to contain the flames continue, with some progress reported. In Sancheong, where authorities issued a Level Three alert, 75% of the fire has been controlled. Meanwhile, in Ulsan’s Ulju region, emergency crews have extinguished 78% of the fires.
Despite these efforts, challenges remain. Strong winds and dry conditions are fueling the flames, making containment difficult. Authorities stress the need for continued vigilance as firefighters battle the Gyeongsang region wildfires.
Residents are urged to follow evacuation orders and stay informed. Emergency teams remain committed to controlling the fires and ensuring public safety. The devastation in the Gyeongsang region underscores the urgent need for effective disaster response and prevention measures.
