South Korea wildfire death toll rises to 15

The death toll in South Korea’s wave of wildfires has risen to 15 as the dry winds quickly spread the fires in the southeastern region of the country, Yonhap News Agency reported, citing officials.

According to the report, some 5,000 service members as well as 146 helicopters are attempting to contain the blaze. Additionally, of the 15 victims, two were from Andong, three were from Cheongsong, four were from Yeongyang and six were from Yeongdeok.

The fires, which began in Sancheong County, located in the province of North Gyeongsang, spread to the county of Uiseong and were then quickly spread by dry winds to nearby Andong, Cheongsong, Yeongyang and Yeongdeok.