Gyeonggi Province issues first heavy rain emergency alert of summer

Gyeonggi Province has declared its first heavy rain emergency alert of the summer, activating a Level 1 response as significant rainfall is forecast to impact the region. The alert signifies a heightened state of readiness to manage potential flooding and related disasters. This proactive measure comes as meteorological forecasts predict substantial precipitation across the province.

The Korea Meteorological Administration forecasts that Gyeonggi Province could receive over 150mm of rain by July 9. Certain areas are bracing for intense downpours, with hourly rainfall rates potentially reaching between 20mm and 50mm. Preliminary heavy rain advisories have already been issued for 11 cities and counties, including Ansan, Siheung, Gimpo, Dongducheon, Yeoncheon, Pocheon, Goyang, Yangju, Pyeongtaek, Hwaseong, and parts of Paju. The Level 1 emergency response involves 35 officials from relevant departments, including those managing natural disasters, roads, and rivers, who will monitor the situation and coordinate support.

Provincial authorities are implementing a series of preemptive measures to mitigate risks. These include strengthening patrols and controlling access to riverside walkways before heavy rain occurs. They will also enforce immediate control and evacuation procedures for underground parking lots and semi-basement residences prone to flooding. Inspections of drainage systems, reservoirs, landslide-prone areas, and steep slopes are also being prioritized in collaboration with local municipalities. Gyeonggi Province's Safety Management Director, Kim Gyu-sik, urged residents to stay informed about weather updates and to avoid entering areas with a high risk of flooding, such as riverbanks and underpasses, during intense rainfall.