South Korea: Typhoon Mitag to make landfall October 3 /update 1

Event

Significant rainfall and damaging winds are expected in southern parts of the Korean Peninsula from Wednesday, October 2, through Friday, October 4, as Typhoon Mitag moves through the region. Up to 60 cm (24 in) of rain may fall in central parts of Jeju Island, starting on Wednesday. According to current forecasts, Mitag will make landfall near Mokpo in South Jeolla province around 09:00 (local time) on Thursday, October 3, before crossing the southern provinces into the East Sea. Flooding, landslides, and power outages are possible in the region in the coming days. Associated business and transportation disruptions, including flight delays and cancelations, are possible. The Jeju branch of the Korean Meteorological Administration (KMA) has warned that flight operations to the island may be impacted through Thursday.

As of 10:00 on Tuesday, October 1, Typhoon Mitag is located at approximately 27.4°N 122.3°E (map here) and is moving west-northwest at 22 kph (14 mph). The storm has maximum sustained winds of 126 kph (78 mph) but is expected to slightly weaken in the coming hours.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, confirm flight reservations, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate adverse weather and power and transportation disruptions, and remember that running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) is enough to knock over an adult - and never drive through flooded streets; floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.