Kumho Tire Factory Fire: Blaze Engulfs Gwangju Plant
Gwangju – May 18, 2024 – The Kumho Tire factory fire in Gwangju, south Korea, erupted early in the morning, leading to a massive emergency response. The blaze, which took firefighters hours to control, affected the plant’s production and prompted evacuations of nearby residents. The primary cause of the factory fire is still under examination, but officials expect the main evolution will be completed before midnight. For further updates.
Kumho Tire Factory Fire: Blaze Engulfs Gwangju Plant
A major fire erupted at the Kumho Tire Gwangju plant in South Korea, prompting a large-scale emergency response. The fire, which broke out early in the morning, took approximately 14 hours to bring under substantial control. while the evolution rate of the fire reached 70%, concerns lingered about the extent of the damage and the impact on local residents.
timeline of the incident
- 7:11 a.m.: Fire breaks out at the Kumho Tire Gwangju plant.
- 8:50 p.m.: Fire evolution rate reaches 70-75%.
Did you know? Kumho Tire’s Gwangju plant is divided into two main sections: Plant 1 (the southern factory) and Plant 2 (the western factory). The fire originated in the second plant.
Firefighter’s Outlook
Kim Kwan-ho, head of the Gwangju Mine Fire Department, addressed the severity of the situation during an on-site press briefing:
The whole 2 plant will be burned down while the fire is in full swing.Kim Kwan-ho, Head of Gwangju Mine Fire department
He further explained the challenges faced by firefighters:
The rubber is riding, so even if you sprinkle the vast water, it is not evolving well.Kim Kwan-ho, Head of Gwangju Mine Fire Department
Impact on Production and residents
The fire disrupted the tire production process, particularly affecting the Jeongryeon process, which involves mixing raw materials and chemicals. Kumho tires has suspended production at the Gwangju plant untill further notice.
The black smoke and dust from the fire prompted the evacuation of residents from nearby apartment complexes. Approximately 146 people from 62 households sought shelter at Gwangju Women’s University.
Pro Tip: If you live near industrial areas, it’s essential to have an emergency evacuation plan and a go-bag ready in case of incidents like this. Stay informed about local emergency alerts and follow instructions from authorities.
Current Status and Outlook
Fire authorities are optimistic that the main fire evolution will be completed before midnight. they are also considering downgrading the response stage,which was previously elevated to include a National Fire and Dongwon Ordinance.
