South Korea: Flooding kills three in Busan amid widespread inclement weather July 23

Event

Three people were killed, one person is missing, and others have been left stranded after heavy downpours and strong winds caused flash floods and disruption across many parts of South Korea on Thursday, July 23. Three people were found dead after their cars were submerged by floodwater in Busan (Yeongnam region) on Thursday night (local time). Another person is missing after being swept away by an overflowing stream in Ulsan (Yeongnam region). Disaster management officials reported that 195 people had to be evacuated and 51 people rescued nationwide. Ulsan and Busan were two of the worst affected cities, with mudslides reported, hundreds of homes flooded, and roads and other transport links made impassable by floodwater. Power outages were also reported in Gyeonggi province and some parts of Seoul's intercity highways were closed due to rising waters.

Further heavy rain is forecast for eastern coastal areas throughout Friday, July 24. Residual disruptions to transport and business are expected in affected areas in the coming days.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate transportation disruptions, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions before setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, including evacuation orders. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.