China: Emergency crews responding to wildfires across parts of Sichuan and Yunnan provinces as of March 18

Emergency crews are responding to several wildfires burning across parts of Sichuan and Yunnan provinces as March 18. Windy and dry conditions in recent days have led to a number of fire outbreaks across the affected region. The fire of greatest concern broke out near the village of Baizi in Yajiang County, Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province March 15. The fire has spread rapidly and over 1,200 firefighters are on site tackling the blaze as of March 18. Authorities have evacuated nearly 3,400 people from communities in the vicinity of the fire. At least 21 homes in the area have reportedly been destroyed by the fire. Another fire broke out in an area to the southeast near Shade Town, Kangding City, Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, March 16. Around 750 firefighters are on site tackling the blaze as of March 18.

In Yunnan Province, a fire broke out near Quannei Township, Linxiang District, Lincang City March 16. The fire has since been controlled; however, authorities have reported that three firefighters died during the response operations. Another fatality has been reported during a fire that broke out near the city of Wenshan March 15. Several other wildfires have broken out across the region in recent days and authorities have warned that the threat of further fires remains high due to recent drought conditions.

Depending on the progression of the wildfires, the status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days. Authorities could close additional routes within the wildfire complexes and evacuate communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operators. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region. Power outages are possible if fires damage power infrastructure. Authorities may cut off power to parts of the affected area to aid firefighting efforts.