07 Mar 2022 | 07:55 AM UTC
South Korea: Emergency crews working to contain wildfires in eastern South Korea as of March 7 /update 1
Emergency crews working to contain wildfires in eastern South Korea as of March 7. Evacuations, transport disruptions ongoing.
Event
Crews are working to contain wildfires burning in eastern South Korea. Authorities estimate that the fires have burned 16,755 hectares (41,402 acres) across Samcheok, Gangneung, and Donghae cities and Yeongweol County in Gangwon Province and Uljin County in North Gyeongsang Province as well as Busan and Daegu metropolitan cities. Authorities declared special disaster zones for Samcheok City and Uljin County. At least 512 buildings, including 343 homes, have been damaged by the fires across the affected area. Authorities evacuated 7,355 people from 4,659 households as of late March 6. More than 18,000 personnel are on-site battling the blazes. The Hanul Nuclear Power Plant in Uljin County and Samcheok liquefied natural gas complex are safe with emergency personnel on site to protect the facilities.
One fire started in Ducheon-ri, Buk-myeon, Uljin County, North Gyeongsang Province early March 4 before quickly spreading north into Samcheok City, Gangwon Province, due to strong winds. The fires are 50-percent contained in Uljin and Yeongweol counties, and 40-percent contained in Dalseong County. The fires are under control in Gangneung, Donghae, and Samcheok cities in Gangwon Province.
Transport
The wildfire may cause some localized transport disruptions across the affected area. The status of nearby roads may change over the coming hours and days. Authorities could close routes within the wildfire complex and evacuate 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.
