South Korea: Explosion reported in Yeosu Industrial Complex, South Jeolla Province, Feb. 11 results in casualties

Event

Authorities are responding to an explosion at a petrochemical factory in the Yeosu Industrial Complex in South Jeolla Province Feb. 11. The incident has resulted in at least four fatalities, while over four workers are injured. The cause of the blast is not immediately clear.

Authorities will probably maintain heightened security in the area in the coming hours. Localized business and traffic disruptions are likely; officials may also close roads in the area to facilitate emergency operations. Lingering disruptions are possible as investigations and cleaning up operations continue.

The incident site is approximately 83 km (52 miles) southeast of Gwangju.

Advice

Avoid the area until the situation stabilizes and authorities give the all-clear. Heed all official transport and security instructions, including any evacuation orders. Plan for localized traffic congestion in nearby areas; allow additional time to reach destinations. Consider remaining indoors if smoke is heavy, especially if you suffer from a respiratory illness, such as asthma, or conditions that lead to increased risk from smoke exposure. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.