Fire near Matsu military range controlled

A fire erupted on a mountainside near the Hengshan firing range on Xiyin Island in Taiwan's Matsu archipelago on Wednesday afternoon. Thick smoke billowed from the hill, visible from a distance, prompting an immediate response from the Dongyin Fire Brigade.

Firefighters and volunteer firefighters were dispatched to the scene to combat the flames. The fire spread along the vegetation, fueled by a southerly wind, expanding its reach. After approximately two hours of intensive efforts, the fire was brought under control and subsequently extinguished. Firefighting personnel remained on site to manage residual heat and prevent any resurgence of the blaze.

The fire occurred on the slope between the Sanshan outpost and the Hengshan firing range. Fortunately, the area is not near residential buildings or military barracks, ensuring that no casualties or property losses occurred. The specific cause of the fire remains under investigation by the relevant authorities. The incident took place during the 'Major Heat' solar term, a period known for high temperatures across Taiwan, including the northernmost county of Lienchiang.