South Korea: Flooding in central South Korea causes damage and disruption on August 2

Event

Heavy rainfall in central South Korea has caused flooding and significant disruption on Sunday, August 2. The province of North Chungcheong was worst affected, with overnight rainfall of up to 60mm (2.3 in) per hour causing mudslides, flooding homes, and resulting in the suspension of rail services and road closures. In the city of Chungju, a firefighter is missing after falling into a stream, and 120 residents have been evacuated after their homes were flooded. The Chungbuk, Taebaek, and Jungang train lines have all been suspended, affecting transportation between central and eastern parts of South Korea. The Korea Railroad Corporation (Korail) has stated that repairs may take a considerable amount of time, and advised that alternative transport options should be used. Gyeonggi Province, which encircles Seoul, has also reported flooded houses and disruption, with a similar amount of rain to North Chungcheong falling in certain areas overnight.

Further rainfall is expected over coming days, and disruptions to business and transportation should be expected in the near term.  

Advice

Those in South Korea are advised to monitor local weather reports in the near term, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate power and transportation disruptions, and avoid wading or driving through floodwaters.