South Korea: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing in northwestern regions as of early July 18

Flood-related disruptions are ongoing across parts of northwestern South Korea as of early July 18. Heavy rainfall over the recent days has resulted in flooding and landslides. Authorities have issued evacuation orders for residents in Eungye-dong, Osan Five Color Market, Cheonghak-dong, and Gwol-dong near Osan Stream in Osan City, Gyeonggi Province. Officials have set up emergency shelters at Maehol Elementary School and Osan High School. Evacuation orders are also in place for Sinpyeong, Naewondang, Udu, and Sigok areas in Dangjin City in South Chungcheong Province due to the risk of flooding of a stream near the Sigok Bridge. The heavy rainfall resulted in the temporary closures of dozens of roads, including the Dongbu and Naebu expressways, and the partial suspension of subway services, including operations between Mangwolsa Station and Deokjeong Station on the Gyeongwon Line.

As of early July 18, the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) maintains heavy rainfall warnings for western Gangwon, Gyeonggi, and northern South Chungcheong provinces. Heavy rainfall and strong wind advisories are also in place across the rest of northwestern South Korea. Officials could update and extend the coverage of the relevant weather alerts over the coming days.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger further flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of 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 will likely persist in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rain has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue additional evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Strong winds and flying debris impacting utility networks will likely cause further disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services. These winds will likely result in hazardous driving conditions and impact overland travel. Localized business disruptions may also occur; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Floodwaters and debris flows will likely render additional bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces will probably cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities will likely temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. The disruptive weather will probably cause delays and cancellations at airports across the affected region; several flights have already been canceled or delayed. Flooding will likely block regional rail lines; freight cancellations are probable in areas subject to heavy rainfall and track blockages. Disruptions to shipping are also likely to persist in places.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after weather conditions have improved; it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. Repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions if there is severe damage to infrastructure.