Greenpeace Warns: Climate Change Extends Wildfire Risk in Korea by 120 Days – What You Need to Know

Climate change is making wildfires a bigger threat in Korea. A recent study by Greenpeace reveals that the risk of wildfires now lasts up to 120 days longer each year compared to before industrialization. This alarming finding is based on research led by Professor Kim Hyung-jun from KAIST.

The team modeled climate patterns using tools from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. They found that days with a high wildfire risk index (20 or more) have surged. In North Gyeongsang, especially near the Sobaek Mountain Range, the risk period has skyrocketed to 151 days annually, a stark contrast to just 14 days before industrial times.

Professor Kim emphasized that climate change is not just increasing the severity of wildfires but also extending their season. Shim Hye-young, a senior researcher at Greenpeace, reinforced the urgency of this issue, stating that Korea’s hot and dry climate is creating the perfect conditions for more frequent, large-scale wildfires. She stresses that quick fixes won’t suffice; a comprehensive wildfire strategy is crucial in tackling the reality of climate change.

Looking at the data, it’s evident that wildfire risks have increased by over 10% during peak fire seasons, particularly from March to April and October to November. The most affected regions include the inland areas of Chungcheong, Jeolla, and North Gyeongsang. Moreover, the wildfire season is shifting to start earlier, with significant changes recorded in South Gyeongsang and South Jeolla. In South Gyeongsang, the season now begins in early February rather than late February, and South Jeolla sees a shift from mid-April to early March.

Social media users have also taken notice of these changes. Many are discussing the growing danger of wildfires and voicing concerns about climate change on platforms like Twitter. They share personal stories of close encounters with wildfires, emphasizing the need for more awareness and action.

Looking ahead, Greenpeace and Professor Kim’s research team plan to publish forecasts later this year on wildfire risks under various global temperature scenarios, including increases of 1.5, 2, and 4 degrees Celsius. This information will be vital in shaping future policies and strategies for disaster management.

For more insights on climate change effects worldwide, you can check the latest reports from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change here.

The growing threat of wildfires reminds us that addressing climate change is not just an environmental issue but a pressing public safety concern.

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