Gangwon Province braces for more rain after downpours cause fallen trees and rockfall risks

Heavy rains in South Korea's Gangwon Province have led to fallen trees and the risk of landslides, prompting authorities to close numerous facilities and deploy emergency resources. As of Sunday afternoon, fire departments had responded to 10 incidents, including seven cases of fallen trees, one report of falling rocks, and two other related calls. The situation prompted the closure of 20 riverside parking lots and bridges in areas like Wonju and Hongcheon.

In Yeongwol, a report of potential falling rocks and soil onto a road was received, and emergency services secured the area before handing it over to local authorities. Similar incidents, such as a communication pole at risk of falling in Pyeongchang and a fallen tree in Wonju, were also managed by the fire department. These events occurred after significant rainfall across the province, with some areas like Sinrim-myeon in Wonju recording over 183.5 mm of rain.

While the rain has temporarily subsided, the Korea Meteorological Administration forecasts a return of intense downpours overnight and into Monday. Central and northern inland areas are expected to experience hourly rainfall of 20-30 mm late Sunday, potentially increasing to 30-50 mm per hour, and even exceeding 50 mm in some locations, by early Monday morning. This forecast has heightened concerns about further damage and prompted preemptive measures.

In response to the anticipated heavy rainfall, particularly in Cheorwon, where hourly rates of 30-50 mm are expected, the Gangwon Provincial Fire Headquarters has strategically positioned four vehicles and ten personnel. Authorities are maintaining a close watch on weather conditions and are prepared to respond swiftly to minimize potential damage to life and property, despite having downgraded the provincial disaster response level to Stage 1.

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We will closely monitor future weather conditions and maintain a rapid response system to minimize casualties and property damage caused by heavy rainfall.