05 Apr 2022 | 09:56 AM UTC
South Korea: Emergency crews working to contain a wildfire in Bonghwa County, North Gyeongsang Province as of April 5
Emergency crews working to contain a wildfire in Bonghwa County, North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea, as of April 5. Evacuations ongoing.
Event
Crews are working to contain a wildfire burning in Bonghwa County, North Gyeongsang Province as of April 5. The fire broke out at around 13:30 April 5 in Hwacheon-ri and has spread to Susik-ri in Mulya-Meon. As of late April 5, the fire is around 60-percent contained and more than 460 personnel are on-site battling the blaze. The fire has grown to around 80 hectares (198 acres) in size and has destroyed three houses. The Korean Forest Service has issued a Level 2 wildfire warning for the fire (the third-highest level on a four-tier scale). Authorities are expecting to have the fire fully contained in the next 24 hours; however, windy and dry conditions may hamper fire fighting efforts.
Evacuations
Emergency crews evacuated around 20 residents from 10 households in Bonghwa County whose homes have been threatened by the wildfire.
Transport
The wildfire may cause some localized transport disruptions in Bonghwa County. The status of nearby roads may change over the coming hours and days. Authorities could close routes within the wildfire complex and evacuated communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operations. 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.
Advice
Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will cause increased congestion and delays. Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in a "go-bag" that can be easily accessed. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages.
