As fires continue to rage through southeast South Korea, at least 26 people have died. Over 88 000 acres have been burned by the flames, which started last Friday, making them the worst ever to occur. The evacuation of thousands of people, the destruction of ancient Buddhist temples, and the hampered work of containment of the flames are being hampered by powerful winds.
317 houses damaged, 27, 000 persons displaced
According to authorities, the continuous infernos are the most dangerous ever recorded in South Korea. The lights have ravaged lots of institutions, including two ancient Buddhist churches.
The internal ministry estimates that 317 structures, including two churches that date back more than 1000 years, have been damaged or destroyed. Before rescuers could reach the historical sites, native news footage showed embers engulfing them.
Eight individuals are in critical situation, with at least 29 others injured. According to authorities, many of the victims were older, primarily in their 60s and 70s.
The National Fire Agency reports that a 73-year-old aircraft died when his plane crashed while battling the fire. His plane could carry 1,200 liters of water.
More than 27, 000 individuals have been forced to leave their homes. People of the Unesco world heritage site, 600-year-old Andong Hahoe traditions town, were among those who were forced to flee.
Extraordinary problems
Almost 30 flames have erupted since Friday. Five were also burning as of early on Thursday, including the largest one, which spanned 82, 000 hectares. Although 44 % of it was contained, firefighters were unable to use aircraft or robots due to strong winds.
The weather agency in South Korea has forecast gentle rain for the week’s end, but authorities said it would not be enough to stop the fires.
Authorities discovered the second fire in Sancheong County, located 160 miles south of Seoul, as it was caused by a farmer’s lawnmower.
Han Duck-soo, the speaking president, predicted that the flames would be among the worst in the nation’s history. According to government records, the largest fire that occurred in 2000 burned 59, 000 hectares and killed two people.
