South Korea: Death toll rises as widespread flooding continues August 8 /update 3

Event

As heavy rains across South Korea continued for a 46th day on Saturday, August 8, the nationwide death toll rose to at least 26 since the monsoon began. Further flooding and landslides have been reported in the country's longest monsoon in seven years. Nearly 5000 people have been evacuated as of Saturday afternoon, 1900 of whom were in South Joella province where a levee collapsed on the Seomjin River. The latest reported deaths also occurred in South Joella, with five people being killed in a landslide in the village of Gokseong on Friday, August 7. The forestry agency has raised the landslide warning to its highest level in every region except on the island of Jeju. Authorities in Seoul have warned people to stay away from basements, valleys, and rivers with further rains expected on Saturday night.

Twelve flights have been canceled at Gwangju Airport (KWJ) after the runway was flooded and further disruptions to transport are expected across the country with more rain forecast in the coming days. Further life-threatening flooding and landslides are also expected.

Advice

Individuals in South Korea 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.