What is Causing the Wildfire Raging in Yunnan, China?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Wildfire in Yunnan has been ongoing for nearly two days.
- 326 responders are engaged in firefighting efforts.
- No casualties reported so far.
- The fire has affected an area of approximately 40 hectares.
- Challenging terrain complicates firefighting operations.
Beijing, Jan 18 (NationPress) A wildfire has been blazing for nearly two days in a village located in southwest China’s Yunnan Province as of Sunday, with 326 individuals mobilised for rescue actions, according to local officials.
The inferno ignited at 4:51 p.m. on Friday in Jiasheng Village, part of Nujiang Prefecture. The local government has coordinated 326 responders, including staff from forestry, grassland, and firefighting sectors, to tackle the flames.
So far, there have been no reported casualties, as stated by Xinhua news agency.
As of 10 p.m. Saturday, the fire line extended about 600 meters, affecting an area of roughly 600 mu (40 hectares).
The authorities indicated that the location is isolated, lacking nearby residential areas or vital infrastructure. However, they noted that the fire is close to steep cliffs and challenging terrain, complicating containment efforts.
As of 8 a.m. on Sunday, firefighting efforts were still in progress.
In another incident, on January 11, a sudden wildfire erupted in the Queshi sub-district of Shantou City, located in south China’s Guangdong Province, according to local officials.
No casualties have been recorded, as local forest fire prevention teams were quickly mobilised to combat the flames.
Previously, in April of last year, a significant wildfire occurred in Pingyao County, in north China’s Shanxi Province.
Over 1,000 personnel were mobilised to fight that fire, as announced by local authorities.
Eight firefighting aircraft were deployed, continuously working to extinguish the blaze. Eleven fire trucks and 65 firefighters were dispatched to ensure a water supply to the fire zone and safeguard nearby villages.
Strong winds complicated operations, but fortunately, no injuries were reported.