South Korea: Tropical Storm Khanun tracking north-northwestward across Gyeonggi Province as of late Aug. 10 /update 18

Event

Tropical Storm Khanun is tracking north-northwestward across Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, early Aug. 10, following landfall earlier in the day in the south of the country. As of 21:00 KST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 63 km (39 miles) east of Yongsan Ain, Seoul.

Forecast models indicate that the storm will weaken into a tropical depression as it tracks northwestward over North Korea's North Hwaghae and Pyongyang provinces through Aug. 11, before dissipating near the west coast of South Pyongan late Aug. 11. Uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and slight changes could occur in the hours and coming days.

The Korea Meteorological Administration has issued typhoon warnings (the highest level on a two-tier scale) across northeastern coastal areas and typhoon advisories across much of the rest of the northern half of the country. Strong wind advisories are in place for some eastern and western regions.

Authorities in South Korea evacuated more than 14,000 people from high-risk areas, mostly in the southern part of the country, ahead of the approach of the storm. Around 36,000 people attending the World Scout Jamboree in Saemangeum were also evacuated to less exposed locations in towns and cities across South Korea Aug. 8. As of late Aug. 10, authorities have reported one fatality and one person is missing due to the adverse weather associated with Khanun. Flooding, landslides, and building damage have also been reported in parts of the country, with areas in the southeast around Geoje, South Gyeonsang Province, where the storm made landfall among the worst affected. Authorities canceled more than 450 flights across the country Aug. 10; further cancelations are possible through early Aug. 11 as Khanun progresses. Almost 400 roads across South Korea are closed, and more than 160 high-speed trains have been canceled Aug. 10. Authorities suspended ferry services and evacuated more than 60,000 vessels to port. Around 40,000 households experienced power outages during the passing of the storm; however, many have had power restored as of late Aug. 10.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. If weather conditions prove hazardous, localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible.

The inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions and render some bridges or roadways impassable. Additional flight disruptions at regional airports and temporary closures of ports are also possible. Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding increase insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Exposure to raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters poses a serious health threat.

Advice

Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast tropical storm conditions. Heed any evacuation orders that may be issued. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the potential for severe flooding and storm surge. Stockpile water, batteries, and other essentials in advance. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil-water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks.

Plan accordingly for protracted commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions in areas in the path of the storm, especially if vital infrastructure is damaged. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.

Resources

Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC)
Korea Meteorological Administration