As South Korea faces unprecedented deluge, affected residents share their stories of loss and survival.
Torrential Rains Devastate South Korea: Four Lives Lost, Thousands Evacuated
Torrential Rains Devastate South Korea: Four Lives Lost, Thousands Evacuated
Heavy rainfall causes significant flooding and emergencies, prompting highest disaster alert level.
South Korea is grappling with severe flooding and rain, raising the nation’s disaster alert level to the maximum as four fatalities have been reported alongside the evacuation of over 1,300 residents. The harsh weather, marked by unseasonal heavy rain, has left repercussions across cities, particularly affecting elderly citizens. Among the deceased were two elderly men; one reportedly succumbed while attempting to clear flooding from his basement. Another victim was tragically crushed by a collapsing wall while he was in his car, moments after alerting his wife about the desperate situation, stating that the vehicle was being swept away. The fourth death was attributed to cardiac arrest.
"We've never seen anything like this," expressed local cafe owner Kim Ha-min from Gwangju, highlighting her experience during the extraordinary rainfall. Gwangju recorded 426mm of rain just yesterday, contributing to a total of over 400mm in affected areas like Seosan. This alarming rainfall event has been labeled a once-in-a-century phenomenon by the country’s weather agency. Social media has been flooded with images depicting submerged vehicles and floating debris, as locals struggle to cope with the sudden inundation.
One resident described his home being entirely submerged except for the roof, while Kim recounted the challenges of running her cafe after it became inundated with rainwater and overwhelming sewage odors. Injuries have also surfaced from the storm's aftermath, with reports of individuals suffering from hypothermia and other maladies. As rescue operations continue, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and avoid hazardous areas prone to landslides and flash flooding.
Meteorological experts explain that the unusual monsoon is the result of dry air mixed with hot, humid conditions, leading to the formation of intense rain clouds. Though there is concern over current weather conditions, forecasts suggest a return to high temperatures and potential heatwaves next week, painting a comprehensive picture of the unpredictable climate South Korea is facing.
"We've never seen anything like this," expressed local cafe owner Kim Ha-min from Gwangju, highlighting her experience during the extraordinary rainfall. Gwangju recorded 426mm of rain just yesterday, contributing to a total of over 400mm in affected areas like Seosan. This alarming rainfall event has been labeled a once-in-a-century phenomenon by the country’s weather agency. Social media has been flooded with images depicting submerged vehicles and floating debris, as locals struggle to cope with the sudden inundation.
One resident described his home being entirely submerged except for the roof, while Kim recounted the challenges of running her cafe after it became inundated with rainwater and overwhelming sewage odors. Injuries have also surfaced from the storm's aftermath, with reports of individuals suffering from hypothermia and other maladies. As rescue operations continue, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and avoid hazardous areas prone to landslides and flash flooding.
Meteorological experts explain that the unusual monsoon is the result of dry air mixed with hot, humid conditions, leading to the formation of intense rain clouds. Though there is concern over current weather conditions, forecasts suggest a return to high temperatures and potential heatwaves next week, painting a comprehensive picture of the unpredictable climate South Korea is facing.
