• At least 28 people have died in South Korea's worst wildfires on record, driven by strong winds and dry conditions.
• More than 45,000 hectares of land have burned, with thousands of residents displaced and historic sites threatened.
• Firefighting efforts are bolstered by a break in weather conditions, but challenges remain as fires spread in several regions.

Wildfires have swept across South Korea since last Friday, ravaging the southeastern regions, with the death toll now reaching 28 people, according to official reports. Notably, the fires have significantly impacted the areas of Uiseong and Andong, forcing a mass evacuation of over 37,800 residents and resulting in substantial loss of property, including homes and historic temples. Reports indicate that approximately 48,000 hectares (about 118,000 acres) of forest land have been consumed by the flames, marking this as the largest wildfire disaster in South Korean history.

Many of the deceased have been identified as elderly, unable to evacuate quickly. Authorities suspect that human error, such as using fire to clear debris, may have ignited these devastating blazes. Efforts to combat the fires have been hampered by strong winds, with the fire spreading rapidly from central Uiseong County to coastal areas.

Firefighting crews have mobilized thousands of personnel and more than 120 helicopters to battle the flames. Fortunately, recent light rain has improved visibility and created favorable conditions for containment, especially in Uiseong, where the fire is reported to be 95% contained as of Friday. However, challenges remain, particularly in the Yeongdeok County, where nearly a third of the area is still ablaze, and strong winds are expected to resurface.

The wildfires have destroyed notable cultural sites, including the Gounsa Temple, originally built in 681 AD, and threatened UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Hahoe Folk Village. As firefighters continue their efforts, the government's resources are being fully mobilized to assist affected residents and prevent further damages.

South Korea's acting President Han Duck-soo has committed to providing support for those displaced, highlighting the importance of rebuilding efforts and pledging that local governments will assist affected individuals in accessing necessary financial resources.

Citing the recent intensity of climatic conditions, experts suggest that the rising frequency of wildfires is tied to the ongoing impacts of climate change. As South Korea grapples with this disaster, many communities are left to find a way back to normalcy amidst extensive damages.

For further details on this developing situation, you can read more from Al Jazeera.