North Korea urges 'high alert' as storm Bavi approaches

North Korea is bracing for the impact of Tropical Storm Bavi, with authorities issuing a call for a "high degree of alert" across all sectors. State media reported that the storm, though weakened from its typhoon status, is poised to bring strong winds and torrential rains, posing a significant threat to the nation. The meteorological administration forecasts substantial rainfall, potentially reaching 80 to 120 millimeters in provinces bordering China, such as North Pyongan and Jagang.

Certain areas, including parts of North and South Pyongan provinces and southern regions, could experience even heavier accumulations, with predictions of 150 to 200 millimeters. Winds are also expected to be considerable, ranging from 36 to 54 kilometers per hour along the western coast and inland, with gusts potentially reaching up to 72 kilometers per hour. This alert comes as Bavi has already caused significant disruption in China, leading to the evacuation of over 171,000 people in Liaoning province.

North Korea's vulnerability to heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding is well-documented. The impoverished nation has a history of devastating floods, with 2024 seeing thousands of homes and crops inundated, forcing the evacuation of over 5,000 people in North Pyongan alone. Reports from South Korean media at the time suggested considerable casualties, though these figures were disputed by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. The current situation underscores the ongoing challenges the country faces in managing natural disasters.