Heavy rain alerts issued across the Seoul metropolitan area and Honam... "Beware of river flooding"

[Financial News] On the morning of the 9th, as heavy rain poured across parts of the Seoul metropolitan area and Honam, the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) issued a series of heavy rain alerts by region. Heavy rain advisories were in effect for Siheung and Gwangmyeong-si from 10:35 a.m., while Hwaseong, Pyeongtaek and Anseong were under heavy rain warnings. In Honam, a heavy rain warning took effect in Gochang County at 10:40 a.m.
The KMA said it adjusted the alert levels according to rainfall conditions in each area. A heavy rain advisory was also newly issued for Eocheongdo in Gunsan.
Heavy rain alerts are divided into advisories and warnings based on expected rainfall. An advisory is issued when three-hour rainfall is expected to reach at least 60 mm or 12-hour rainfall at least 110 mm. A warning is issued when three-hour rainfall is expected to reach 90 mm or more, or 12-hour rainfall 180 mm or more. Even advisory-level rain falls heavily enough to make it difficult to shield oneself with an umbrella. The KMA urged people to watch out for safety accidents such as river flooding and damage to homes.
According to the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, when a heavy rain alert is issued, local governments begin preventive measures such as restricting access to riverside areas and walking paths, and blocking entry to underpasses. It is also advisable to install flood barriers in semi-basement homes and low-lying shops that are prone to flooding, and to move vehicles parked in riverside lots to safer places in advance.
In cities especially, accidents caused by manhole covers being forced open by water pressure have repeatedly occurred, so people walking on flooded roads should stay close to the sidewalk edge. Given that flooding in underground spaces has caused repeated casualties during summer downpours in recent years, residents in areas under alert should check real-time weather updates and avoid unnecessary outings.
[email protected] Kim Kyung-soo Reporter