Heavy rain expected in southern regions and Jeju until Aug. 17; Forest Service urges evacuation

Southern regions of South Korea and Jeju Island are bracing for continued heavy rainfall through August 17, with warnings issued for potential floods and landslides. The Korea Meteorological Administration forecasts significant precipitation, particularly along the southern coast, Busan, Ulsan, and mountainous areas near Jirisan.

The Ministry of the Interior and Safety elevated the heavy rain crisis alert level from 'Concern' to 'Attention' on the morning of August 16. This follows substantial rainfall over the Liberation Day holiday weekend, with Jeju's mountainous areas receiving over 250mm and Haenam in South Jeolla Province recording more than 180mm. Mokpo experienced intense downpours, with over 66mm falling in a single hour.

Emergency services have been actively responding to incidents. Between August 15 and the afternoon of August 16, the South Jeolla Province integrated fire and disaster headquarters received 134 related reports. Rescues were conducted in Mokpo after floodwaters entered a commercial building and a basement. Despite the heavy rain and flooding, no injuries or fatalities have been reported thus far.

Further heavy rainfall, ranging from 100 to 200mm, is expected in western parts of South Gyeongsang Province and near Jirisan, with some areas potentially receiving over 250mm. The rainfall is also expected to offer some relief to drought-stricken areas in Gyeongnam Province. However, Jeju Island could see an additional 30 to 80mm, with higher amounts in its mountainous and mid-mountainous regions.

The Korea Forest Service has also raised the landslide crisis alert level to 'Attention' for several regions, including South Jeolla, Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongnam. Officials are urging residents in areas with heavy rainfall forecasts to refrain from outdoor activities near forests and to heed evacuation orders immediately if issued. Three on-site situation management officials have been dispatched to Gyeongnam Province due to the anticipated heavy rainfall near Jirisan.

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In areas where heavy rain is forecast, you should refrain from outdoor activities near forests. Residents should pay attention to evacuation guidance such as emergency disaster messages and village broadcasts, and if an evacuation order is issued, move immediately to the designated shelter.