As of 3:00 AM on March 26, the devastation caused by raging wildfires in the Yeongnam region has claimed at least 13 lives since the fires erupted on March 21. Authorities are warning that the death toll may rise further as search efforts continue, particularly for those who did not evacuate in time.

The latest confirmed casualties include two individuals from Andong, three from Cheongsong, four from Yeongyang, and four from Sancheong, Gyeongnam. Tragically, one more person is still reported missing, raising concern amongst local families and officials.

Heart-wrenching details emerged from Andong, where a woman in her 50s, known as 'A', was discovered deceased in her backyard. Her husband, who sustained severe burns, has since been hospitalized. Preliminary investigations suggest that the couple was attempting to flee the inferno when the tragedy struck. A police probe is underway to determine the precise circumstances leading to her death.

Earlier in the day, a woman in her 70s, identified as 'B', was found lifeless in the yard of a residence in Sinduk-ri, having succumbed to smoke inhalation. This alarming incident highlights the perilous conditions faced by residents as they navigated the chaos brought on by the flames.

In Cheongsong, Gyeongbuk, three fatalities have been confirmed, with one additional person missing. An 80-year-old woman perished in Pacheon-myeon after failing to escape the advancing fire. A 70-year-old man met a similar fate in Sinryang-ri, where his body was discovered by the village head while attempting to assist others with evacuation. Another casualty, identified as 'C' (65), was found along a street in Cheongsong-eup, evidently suffering from burns, with police revealing her vehicle close by—pointing to a possible attempt to evacuate before the fire caught up with her.

In Jinbo-myeon, a vulnerable elderly woman in her 80s, who had dementia, remains unaccounted for after not joining fellow residents during the critical evacuation.

Yeongyang-gun has reported four deaths in connection with the wildfires. On the night of March 25, investigators uncovered three charred bodies in Posan-ri and one in Hwamae-ri—one of the worst-hit areas. Efforts are ongoing to identify the deceased in what was a devastating night of loss.

The situation in Sancheong has also sparked concern, where four firefighters tragically lost their lives while bravely battling the ferocious blazes threatening homes and lives.

Emergency responders and fire crews continue to confront the relentless wildfires while local authorities beg citizens to follow evacuation protocols to ensure safety. This disastrous event has left the community in shock, mourning the loss of lives while grappling with the reality of recovery. As the fires rage on, so do the fears and uncertainties of the residents affected by this calamity.