South Korea Battles Deadliest Wildfires in History
In a tragic turn of events, wildfires in South Korea have claimed at least 27 lives and razed historic temples over the past week. Authorities have declared the blazes the nation’s worst natural fire disaster. The fires, which ignited in central Uiseong County, have scorched more than 33,000 hectares—doubling in size from the previous day. This surpasses the record set in March 2000, making it the largest single forest fire in South Korean history.
China Successfully Launches New Data Relay Satellite
China has launched the Tianlian II-04, a new data relay satellite, into orbit from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwest China’s Sichuan Province. The second-generation geosynchronous orbit satellite will enhance data relay and telemetry, tracking, and command (TT&C) services for manned spacecraft, including spaceships and space stations. This marks a significant advancement in China’s space exploration and communication capabilities.
Indonesian Volcano Eruption Forces Evacuations
Indonesia’s Lewotobi Laki-laki volcano erupted spectacularly, sending ash clouds soaring over 8 kilometers into the sky. Authorities elevated the alert status to the highest level, prompting evacuations and causing an Australian airline to cancel some flights to Bali. A spokesperson for the disaster mitigation agency reported one injury during evacuations. Indonesia, located on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” is home to nearly 130 active volcanoes and experiences frequent seismic activity due to tectonic movements.
Thai Prime Minister Overcomes No-Confidence Vote
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has survived a no-confidence vote in parliament, her first major test since taking office. The youngest premier in Thailand’s history secured support from 319 of the 488 lawmakers present. The vote followed a heated censure debate in which critics questioned her qualifications and alleged she was influenced by her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The successful vote reaffirms the stability of her coalition government.
