Heavy rains have pounded South Korea, killing four people and forcing over 1,300 evacuations. The torrential downpour has caused widespread flooding in several cities, with residents describing it as a “once-in-a-century event”.
The worst-affected city, Seosan on the west coast, received over 400mm of rain in just half a day, according to the weather agency. Residents have reported seeing vehicles and homes submerged underwater, with furniture floating in the water.
“It’s scary,” said Kim Ha-min, a cafe owner in Gwangju who had to shut her business due to flooding. “I’ve never seen a flood here before.”
The government has raised its weather-related disaster alert to its highest level amid concerns of landslides and flash floods. Authorities have urged people to stay away from riverbanks, steep slopes, and underground spaces.
Other effects of the extreme weather include several reported injuries, including hypothermia and leg injuries. Forecasters expect high temperatures to return next week, with a possibility of a heatwave.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn41n1lj2jzo