South Korea declares national disaster
SEOUL: The South Korean government declared a state of national disaster yesterday over the massive blaze that has engulfed five towns and counties along the northeastern coast, Yonhap news agency reported.
The announcement came after Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon said he had recommended President Moon Jae-in to take the measure.
“The government will also decide whether to designate the affected areas as special disaster zones after examining the extent of the damage,” an Interior and Safety Ministry official said.
The inferno that started on a mountain near the northeastern coast, with the damage piling up to what authorities described as “an unprecedented extent”.
The fire, believed to have started on a roadside in Goseong, Gangwon Province, about 160km from here, spread quickly to neighbouring areas, engulfing Sokcho, Gangneung and Donghae farther south within hours, as strong winds fanned the fire.
More than 870 fire engines had been despatched to fight the blaze. One man died and 11 others were wounded. More than 4,200 people had been evacuated.
The blaze had burned 385ha of forest, destroying at least 300 houses and buildings in Goseong, Sokcho and Gangneung.
Among the damaged buildings were nursing facilities and commercial camping sites — the eastern coastal cities are popular resort and travel destinations.
Roads and railways have been shut off, with 52 schools and other facilities closed.