Geoje faces renewed flood risk as heavy rain forecast after partial recovery

Recovery efforts in Geoje, South Gyeongsang Province, are at a critical juncture as the region braces for more heavy rain this weekend. As of Saturday morning, 79% of the 2,341 flood damage cases reported in the area have been addressed. The provincial government reports that most damage to roads, rivers, and water/sewage systems has been repaired.

However, the recovery is uneven. While road and utility repairs are largely complete, only 26% of landslide damage has been cleared, with 64 out of 242 cases resolved. Small businesses are also facing a slower recovery, with only 50% of the 523 reported cases completed.

The forecast for significant rainfall, with predictions of 30-80mm on Saturday and additional rain on Sunday and Monday, casts a shadow over the ongoing work. This renewed threat of heavy downpours has created a tense atmosphere among those involved in the recovery.

To combat the potential for further damage, 888 personnel, including public officials, military personnel, and volunteers, along with 237 pieces of equipment like excavators and water pumps, are deployed. City officials are prepared to halt outdoor recovery operations and shift to indoor tasks if the rainfall intensifies.