Ukraine: Forest fires across Luhansk oblast kill nine October 1 /update 1

Event

Emergency services in Luhansk oblast reported on Thursday, October 1, that nine people have been killed and 14 others hospitalized by a series of forest fires that have hit the region. 31 settlements have been threatened by fires and 120 people evacuated. Officials stated that a total of 146 fires have broken out, though most have now been extinguished, and at least 250 houses have been damaged. The fires have been aided by strong winds and engulfed an area of around 11,000 hectares (27,182 acres).

Further spread of the fires is possible in the near term. An emergency response presence and localized transportation disruptions, namely road closures, should be anticipated in the affected areas.

Advice

Those in the vicinity of the fires are advised to monitor the situation, avoid the area, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.