At least 18 people have died and 9 others are missing following five consecutive days of heavy rainfall in South Korea, which has caused severe flooding and landslides, leading to a major humanitarian crisis.
According to the Ministry of Interior and Safety, the southern region of Sancheong has been the worst affected, where 10 people were killed—most of them trapped under collapsed homes or swept away by flash floods.
Reports from various provinces indicate that more than 14,000 people have been displaced and are currently staying in temporary shelters. Approximately 1,200 homes and public infrastructures have been damaged. Rescue operations are ongoing with the combined efforts of military personnel, firefighters, and local volunteers.
Meanwhile, the Korea Meteorological Administration has issued warnings of an impending heatwave, expected to affect southern and southeastern regions next week. Temperatures may soar to 37°C in some areas, exacerbating the ongoing crisis.
The National Disaster and Safety Office has pointed to climate change as a driving force behind such extreme weather events. It noted that a similar disaster in 2022 claimed 11 lives, though the current situation is proving to be more severe.
The government has declared a state of emergency in the affected regions and urged residents to remain in safe zones. Authorities also confirmed that all necessary measures are being taken for relief and rehabilitation.
Source: Al Jazeera.