A fire broke out at a compost factory in Bugeo-ri, Baeksan-myeon, Gimje, North Jeolla Province, at 8:39 a.m. today (July 13) and was extinguished in about 30 minutes.

There were no casualties, but the fire resulted in approximately 5 million won in property damage (estimated by the fire department), including the loss of 60 tons of compost and damage to 20 square meters of the factory roof.

A heatwave warning is currently in effect for the Gimje area, with forecasts predicting that the daily maximum sensible temperature will remain at or above 35°C (95°F) for at least two consecutive days.

Police and fire authorities suspect the fire was caused by spontaneous combustion and are investigating the exact cause.

A fire department official advised, "Please pay special attention to ventilation and temperature control in enclosed warehouses or workplaces following heatwaves and heavy rain."

(Photo courtesy of Jeonbuk State Fire Service, Yonhap News)