A helicopter involved in efforts to extinguish South Korea’s raging wildfires crashed on Wednesday, resulting in the death of the pilot, according to fire officials.
The aircraft went down in a mountainous region of Uiseong County while attempting to contain the spreading fires.
“We received information about a helicopter crash during wildfire suppression.
“The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was found dead at the scene,” a Gyeongbuk Fire Service official confirmed.
The crash occurred as South Korea faces one of its most devastating wildfire outbreaks, with at least 18 fatalities reported.
Acting President Han Duck-soo described the destruction as “unprecedented” as fires continue to spread across multiple areas.
Firefighters are struggling to bring the blazes under control as strong winds and dry conditions hamper aerial firefighting efforts.
The flames have already burned vast stretches of land and forced thousands to evacuate.
Authorities have elevated the crisis alert to its highest level, deploying emergency teams to contain the disaster.
Meanwhile, investigations are underway to determine the cause of the helicopter crash as South Korea continues its fight against the deadly wildfires.