Title: Torrential Rains Cause Flooding and Landslides in South Korea, Leaving Seven Dead and Thousands Evacuated
Subtitle: Seven people have died, three are missing, and thousands have been evacuated as heavy rains continue to wreak havoc in South Korea.
SEOUL, July 15 (Reuters) – South Korea is grappling with the devastating effects of torrential rains that have caused landslides and the overflow of a dam, resulting in widespread destruction and loss of life. As of Saturday, seven people have been reported dead, three are still missing, seven others have been injured, and thousands have been forced to evacuate their homes.
The Ministry of Interior and Safety reported that as of 11 a.m. (0200 GMT), 1,567 people had already been evacuated across the nation. The number is likely to increase as the water level continues to rise, breaching the dam in North Chungcheong province.
Local governments have issued evacuation orders to safeguard the lives of more than 7,000 people, according to provincial authorities. The situation remains critical as heavy rains persist, posing a significant threat to public safety.
The Goesan Dam, located in the affected region, is under immense pressure as more than 2,700 tonnes of water per second inundate the structure. This is the maximum discharge limit of the dam, highlighting the severity of the ongoing rainfall.
Transportation systems have also been severely impacted by the heavy downpour. Korea Railroad Corp announced the suspension of all slow trains and some bullet trains, with the possibility of delays for other bullet trains due to compromised operations. Landslides, flooded tracks, and falling rocks have rendered the railway tracks unsafe for travel.
In a destructive incident on Friday, a slow train derailed in North Chungcheong province after being hit by a landslide that swept earth and sand over the tracks. Fortunately, there were no passengers on board, but the train operator sustained injuries.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo called for active military involvement in the ongoing rescue efforts. He implored government agencies to collaborate with the armed forces, mobilizing equipment and manpower to aid in rescue activities.
The effects of the torrential rains are far-reaching and continue to pose challenges to South Korea’s infrastructure and public safety. The situation remains uncertain as the heavy rainfall persists, amplifying the risk of further flooding and landslides.
Reporting by Joyce Lee; Editing by Michael Perry and William Mallard
Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.