South Korea Battles Worst Ever Wildfires as Death Toll Hits 27
Wildfires raging in South Korea have doubled in size, marking the country’s worst natural fire disaster. At least 27 people have been killed, and historic temples have been incinerated. Authorities are struggling to contain the fires, which have been exacerbated by dry conditions and strong winds.
Unprecedented Scale and Speed
More than 33,000 hectares (81,500 acres) have been charred or are still burning in the largest of the fires that began in Uiseong county. This surpasses the previous record of 24,000 hectares in a March 2000 fire. The fires have spread rapidly, reaching the coastal county of Yeongdeok, 51 km away, in just 12 hours.
Impact on Historic Sites
The wildfires have devastated historic sites, including much of Gounsa Temple in Uiseong, which was built in 681. Teams of firefighters are on standby to protect UNESCO World Heritage sites like Hahoe Village and the Byeongsan Confucian Academy in Andong.
Role of Climate Change
Experts attribute the rapid spread and increased frequency of wildfires to climate change. Higher temperatures and dry conditions have turned landscapes into fire fuel, making such disasters more frequent and deadly globally.
Authorities are deploying over 120 helicopters and military resources to combat the fires, but the situation remains critical. Minimal rainfall is expected, offering little relief to the affected areas.
For more details, visit the original Reuters article.