South Korea: Heavy rain and floods in Seoul May 16-18

Event

Heavy rain and subsequent flooding has battered the Seoul Metropolitan Area since Wednesday, May 16, leading to at least two fatalities. The heavy rain also resulted in minor damages and disrupted the public transportation system and daily life in the region. Parts of the capital Seoul received as much as 4.5 cm (1.8 in) of rain, leading to the flooding of a bridge and several stadiums. Rain continued into the morning of May 18; however, more favorable conditions are forecast for the weekend of May 19-20.

Context

Such heavy rainfall is unseasonal, more typical for the summer period from mid-June and July.

Advice

Individuals in the capital region are advised to monitor weather forecasts and remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock an adult over.