- South Korea’s worst wildfires have killed 26 people and forced over 37,000 to evacuate.
- Strong winds and dry weather are making firefighting efforts difficult despite 9,000 workers and 120 helicopters deployed.
- More than 300 buildings, including historic sites, have been destroyed as fires continue to spread.
South Korea is facing its worst wildfires, with at least 26 people dead and more than 37,000 forced to leave their homes. The fires started last Friday in the country’s southeastern regions and have burned over 36,000 hectares of land.
Strong winds and dry weather have made it difficult for firefighters to control the flames. The government has sent more than 9,000 workers and around 120 helicopters to fight the fire. However, authorities say the rain expected on Thursday may not be enough to help.
The fires have destroyed over 300 buildings, including historic structures. In Uiseong, about 20 out of 30 structures at the ancient Gounsa temple have burned. A pilot died when his helicopter crashed while battling the fire, and four firefighters also lost their lives.
Officials believe human error caused some fires, such as people burning grass or welding. The Korea Forest Service has raised the wildfire warning to the highest level.
Authorities have evacuated villages, including the UNESCO-listed Hahoe folk village. Thick smoke continues to rise from Juwang Mountain as helicopters drop water.
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