Thailand: Emergency crews responding to wildfires across Mae Hong Son Province as of March 7

Emergency crews are responding to dozens of wildfires burning across Mae Hong Son Province as of March 7. The fires have broken out amid hot, dry, and windy conditions in the region since March 1; conditions conducive for further fire growth are forecast over the coming days. As of March 7, officials have reported the total area burned by the fires has reached nearly 40,000 hectares (98,842 acres) and reports indicate one fatality, two injuries, and an unconfirmed number of people displaced due to the fires. Smoke from the wildfires is contributing to poor air quality in the region. Smog led to flight delays at Mae Hong Son Airport (HGN) on March 6.

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.