The Yeongnam region of South Korea has been devastated by wildfires that ignited on March 21. As of 3:00 AM on March 26, the confirmed death toll has tragically increased to at least 13 individuals, with fears that this number may rise further as search efforts continue.

The deceased include two individuals from Andong, three from Cheongsong, four from Yeongyang, and four from Sancheong in Gyeongsangnam-do. Disturbingly, one person has been reported missing in the chaos that ensued as residents attempted to escape the flames.

Recent reports from the Andong Police Station detail a heartbreaking incident involving a couple from Parkok-ri, Imdong-myeon. A woman in her 50s, identified only as 'A,' was found deceased in her yard early on March 26. Her husband, who suffered serious burns, was rushed to Andong Hospital. Authorities believe that the couple may have been trying to flee the approaching wildfire when the tragedy struck.

In another incident, an elderly woman in her 70s, referred to as 'B,' was discovered dead at her home in Sinduk-ri, Imha-myeon, likely as a result of suffocation from smoke inhalation related to the fire.

The situation in Cheongsong is equally dire, with three confirmed fatalities and one person still unaccounted for. Reports indicate that an elderly woman in her 80s succumbed in Pacheon-myeon because she was unable to evacuate on time. Additionally, a man in his 70s was found deceased thanks to the vigilance of the village head, who was in the process of coordinating evacuations.

In a deeply tragic account, a 65-year-old woman, identified as 'C,' was located lifeless on a street in Cheongsong-eup after being burned in the fire. Her vehicle was discovered abandoned nearby, and investigators suspect she was trying to reach safety after evacuation orders were issued.

Moreover, in Jinbo-myeon, authorities are searching for an elderly woman in her 80s with dementia, who was reported missing after failing to evacuate with her neighbors.

The fires have also wreaked havoc in Yeongyang-gun, Gyeongbuk, where around 11:11 PM on March 25, the charred remains of three individuals were found in Posan-ri, while another body was discovered in Hwamae-ri. Identification efforts are underway for these victims.

Tragically, four brave firefighters who risked their lives battling the flames in Sancheong, Gyeongnam, also lost their lives amid the chaos.

Authorities are actively working to assess the full extent of the devastation and are urging residents to prioritize safety and adhere to evacuation orders. As local communities face this overwhelming disaster, the spirit of resilience remains strong, with many volunteers and organizations stepping forward to assist those impacted by the wildfires.