Record Rainfall Floods Gyeongsangun in South Korea, One Killed in Landslide

A serious situation has developed in South Korea’s Gyeongsang Province, where torrential rain has caused widespread flooding and landslides. One person has died and two others have been injured.

Geoje is among the areas hardest hit by the extreme weather. In just one hour, the city recorded 124.5 millimeters of rainfall, the highest level there since meteorological records began in 1972.

During the night from Sunday into Monday, rainfall in Geoje exceeded 400 millimeters. The heavy rain triggered landslides, one of which struck an apartment building in the southeastern part of the city and destroyed its first floor.

Rescue crews managed to pull three people from the building. However, one of them died, while the other two were injured.

Videos and images shared on social media show vehicles submerged in water and roads overwhelmed by powerful torrents. Due to damage and flooding on roads, authorities have suspended bus services and waste collection in several areas.

Several of the city’s tourist attractions have also been closed. Residents have been urged not to use their vehicles, to stay away from rivers and hazardous areas, and to move to safe locations if conditions worsen.

Extreme weather has also affected other parts of East and Southeast Asia. China, Japan and the Philippines have faced heavy rainfall, storms, flooding and significant damage.

In Japan, unusual rainfall in recent days has killed at least 10 people. Thousands have been stranded at Narita Airport, while flooding has left more than 20,000 households without electricity.

Meteorological experts warn that this year’s typhoon season could be more intense than usual.