Wildfires fueled by strong winds have devastated parts of South Korea’s southeastern region, claiming at least four lives, injuring six others, and forcing the evacuation of around 1,500 residents, disaster authorities reported on Sunday.

The blaze began on Friday in Sancheong County, located about 250 kilometers southeast of Seoul, and rapidly spread to surrounding areas.

Of the six individuals injured, five sustained serious injuries. All victims were reported to be in Sancheong County, according to the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters.

The fires have scorched a total of 3,286.11 hectares, roughly equivalent to 4,600 football fields. The hardest-hit areas include Euiseong in North Gyeongsang Province and Sancheong, where more than 1,000 hectares were destroyed.

In response to the threat, approximately 1,500 residents have been evacuated to temporary shelters as authorities continue their efforts to contain the fires.

As of 8 a.m., firefighters were still working to control wildfires in four locations across the southeastern region. (Yonhap | PNA)