Raging Wildfire in Hadong Forces Evacuations and Intense Nighttime Efforts

The fire started around 12:05 PM KST in a mountain area of Hoeshin-ri, Okjong-myeon. What’s particularly concerning is that this location is only about 3 kilometers away from where another recent wildfire in Sancheong had spread. As of 7 PM, the fire was only 87% contained, which is why authorities are pulling out all the stops for a massive nighttime firefighting operation.

During the day, a total of 36 helicopters, 72 pieces of equipment, and 753 personnel were deployed to combat the flames. However, with sunset, the helicopters had to be grounded, leaving 518 personnel on the ground to continue the fight through the night.

As it stands, the affected area covers approximately 65.1 hectares, with a total fire line of about 4.6 kilometers. The good news is that about 4 kilometers of that fire line has been contained, leaving around 0.6 kilometers still active.

The Korea Forest Service is throwing everything they have at this, stating they are “mobilizing all available personnel and equipment to switch to a nighttime wildfire fighting system and will pay attention to prevent safety accidents.”

Due to the fire’s proximity to residential areas, residents of Hoeshin Village and Yangji Village were advised to evacuate to Okcheon Hall and Okjong High School. So far, 326 residents have evacuated, with 214 taking shelter in designated evacuation centers.

Adding to the concern, an elderly resident in his 70s near the origin of the fire sustained burns to both hands while trying to put out the blaze himself. He’s been taken to the hospital for treatment. Initial reports suggest the fire may have started due to sparks from a lawn mower. An investigation into the exact cause and extent of the damage will be conducted once the fire is fully extinguished.

고기동, head of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters, has issued an urgent directive to mobilize all available resources and prioritize the safety of residents and firefighters.