Wildfires Resurge in South Korea as Authorities Attempt to Contain Blaze

(MENAFN) Wildfires that have been ravaging South Korea reignited in the southeastern region of the nation overnight, according to fire officials on Saturday, who reported that firefighting helicopters were deployed, based on a South Korean news agency.

A representative from the Gyeongbuk Fire Service Headquarters mentioned that reports of smoke in Andong, situated 190 kilometers (118 miles) southeast of Seoul in North Gyeongsang Province, began arriving at approximately 10 p.m. on Friday (1300GMT Saturday). Forestry authorities believe the flames rekindled about 3 a.m. on Saturday.

Previously, the Korea Forest Service had declared that wildfires in North Gyeongsang were completely under control by Friday, after the blazes caused numerous casualties and forced thousands to evacuate.

Officials also reported that fires had reignited in other areas of the province, including Euiseong, to the south of Andong.

Regional authorities have called in nine firefighting helicopters, along with 230 firefighters and public workers, and 50 soldiers to help extinguish the fires.

Up to 30 additional helicopters are expected to be dispatched by North Gyeongsang officials as smoke columns were seen across the region, though authorities stated that the fires had not yet flared up again.

In the past few days, the wildfires have ravaged the area, consuming 48,000 hectares (118,610 acres) of forest, based on government reports.

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