30 Jun 2022 | 05:49 AM UTC
South Korea: Adverse weather forecast in northern regions, including Seoul, through at least early July 1
Heavy rainfall forecast across northern South Korea through at least early July 1. Possible flooding and associated disruptions.
Event
Heavy rainfall is forecast across northern South Korea through at least early July 1. As of June 30, the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) has issued heavy rain warnings across Gyeonggi and southwestern Gangwon provinces as well as Incheon Metropolitan City and Seoul Special City. Heavy rain advisories are in place across the rest of Gangwon and northern North Chungcheong provinces. Flood advisories are in place at Wangsukcheon (Jingwan Bridge) and Tancheon (Daegok Bridge). Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the relevant weather alerts over the coming days.
Authorities closed all entrances to the Dongbu Expressway, connecting Songpa District in Seoul to Uijeongbu, Gyeonggi Province since early June 30 due to a nearby river overflowing. The Jamsu Bridge over the Han River in central Seoul is also closed due to high river levels, along with portions of the Olympic Highway and the Seobu Urban Expressway. Authorities have opened five gates at the Paldang Dam to prevent flooding. At least one fatality has been reported due to a traffic accident caused by slippery roads.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
