Catastrophic Rainfall Strikes South Korea, Leaving Four Dead and Thousands Evacuated

Four fatalities and the evacuation of over 1,300 people have been reported in South Korea as heavy, unseasonal rains lead to devastating floods across the region. Authorities raised disaster alerts to the highest level as the situation remains critical.

Severe weather has wreaked havoc across South Korea, resulting in four deaths and the evacuation of more than 1,300 residents due to torrential rainfall that has caused alarming flooding. The unexpected heavy rains saw the death toll rise as authorities confirmed that among the deceased were two elderly men. One was reportedly attempting to drain floodwaters from his basement when he tragically lost his life. A third victim was killed when a wall collapsed on his vehicle, which he had just informed his wife was being "swept away" by floodwaters. The fourth individual succumbed to cardiac arrest.

The inclement weather has prompted the South Korean government to elevate its disaster alert level to the highest possible, reflecting the seriousness of the situation. Residents in severely impacted areas expressed their disbelief as they faced unprecedented conditions; one individual reported that nearly the entire area was submerged by floods, with only the rooftops of homes visible. Seosan, the city most affected by the deluge, recorded an astonishing 400mm of rain within just half a day, an occurrence described by weather officials as a "once-in-a-century event."

In Gwangju, residents shared their fears, with a cafe owner noting that such flooding was unprecedented in her neighborhood. The extensive rainfall has caused considerable damage, with furniture floating in inundated homes and businesses. Reports suggest injuries across the nation, including hypothermia cases, as officials continue to monitor the situation.

Authorities have strongly advised citizens to avoid riverbanks, steep inclines, and underground spaces due to the heightened risk of flash floods and landslides. Meteorologists indicated that the extreme rainfall resulted from a combination of dry air from the northwest meeting humid conditions from the south. Despite the current severe weather, temperature forecasts suggest a potential heatwave could return next week.