Footage captured during the weekend showed residents struggling to salvage their belongings, wading through flooded streets, and navigating roads strewn with debris.
Severe monsoon rains, landslides, and floods have claimed the lives of at least 26 people in South Korea, while another 10 people are reported missing.
The casualties occurred in the central and southeastern regions of the country, according to the Ministry of the Interior and Safety.
Over the weekend, the situation worsened, resulting in 13 more injuries and forcing thousands of people to evacuate their homes. On Saturday night, July 15, over 4,200 people sought refuge in temporary shelters. The heavy downpours led to power outages for 25,470 residents, and approximately 5,570 people had to abandon their homes, as per the latest ministry report.
The calamitous weather conditions have also caused significant disruptions to the transportation systems. A total of 20 flights were canceled on Saturday, and nearly 200 roads remained closed due to debris and flooding. Korea Railways suspended service on regular trains and some bullet trains due to falling rocks and submerged railway lines.
The Korea Meteorological Administration issued a forecast for continued heavy rainfall in Korea, extending until Sunday. In response to the crisis, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has requested military assistance to bolster rescue operations. President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was visiting Ukraine at the time, expressed his determination to use all available resources and minimize further loss of life.
The South Korean government has committed to mobilizing personnel and resources to alleviate the situation, prioritizing the safety and well-being of its citizens.