Seoul: Heavy rains are anticipated to drench Seoul and central regions of South Korea, as the state weather agency forecasts significant rainfall across the country until Thursday. Downpours exceeding 200 millimeters per hour are expected in southern Gyeonggi Province.
According to Yonhap News Agency, approximately 50 to 150 millimeters of rain is predicted in the greater Seoul area and parts of Chungcheong Province. Meanwhile, the Jeolla provinces can expect 20 to 100 millimeters, and the Gyeongsang provinces may see 30 to 100 millimeters of rain until the following day. The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) has announced plans to issue a heavy rain advisory for Seoul at 5 p.m., applicable when rainfall is anticipated to surpass 60 mm within three hours or 110 mm over 12 hours.
In response to the forecast, the interior ministry has activated Level 1 operations of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters for the greater Seoul area and Chungcheong Province effective from 3 p.m. Vice Interior Minister Kim Min-jae emphasized the need for authorities to implement measures to minimize damage, respond proactively, and prevent casualties.
Vice Minister Kim also advised the public to remain informed about the weather conditions and steer clear of hazardous areas, including those prone to landslides and underground facilities. As a safety precaution, authorities have closed 29 urban streams and four riverside parking lots in Seoul.