North Korea: Authorities announce relief efforts for areas affected by Typhoon Maysak September 5 /update 1

Event

Authorities announced on Saturday, September 5, that areas affected by the passage of Typhoon Maysak would receive government assistance after the storm caused casualties and property damage in a number of provinces. At least 1,000 houses were destroyed during Maysak's passage, and public buildings and farmland were also affected by floodwaters in South Hamgyong and North Hamgyong provinces. Although no official statistics have been released, state media reported that dozens of casualties occurred in Kangwon province and southern parts of South and North Hamgyong province. The government stated that officials in Wonsan (Kangwon province), where flooding was reported, would be punished for allegedly failing to prepare for the typhoon. Some 12,000 emergency workers are to be deployed from Pyongyang to assist in relief efforts in South and North Hamgyong provinces. Typhoon Maysak moved through North Korea between Wednesday, September 2, and Thursday, September 3, having already caused two fatalities and power outages across neighboring South Korea.

Further heavy rainfall and strong winds are expected in the near term. Disruption to transportation, utilities, and business is to be expected in affected areas.

Advice

Individuals are advised to monitor local weather reports, confirm flight reservations, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate adverse weather and power and transportation disruptions, and remember that running water can be dangerous. Never drive through flooded streets; floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.