South Korean PM orders emergency response to heavy southern rainfall

South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has issued urgent directives in response to severe downpours affecting the southern part of the country, with Geoje city experiencing significant impact. The heavy rainfall has led to flooding, road closures, and isolated residents requiring rescue.

“

The fire department, police agency, and local governments should mobilize all available personnel and equipment to prioritize life rescue, including evacuating isolated residents.

Prime Minister Han instructed relevant agencies, including the National Fire Agency, National Police Agency, and local governments, to mobilize all available personnel and equipment. The primary focus is on life-saving operations, particularly the evacuation of residents trapped by the floodwaters. The directives emphasize a full-scale effort to ensure the safety and well-being of those affected.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of providing adequate support for individuals displaced by the floods. This includes ensuring that temporary shelters are operated efficiently to minimize discomfort for evacuees. Han also highlighted the need for stringent safety measures for rescue personnel, warning against secondary accidents during ongoing operations.

“

Please do your best to provide relief support, such as operating temporary shelters, so that evacuees do not experience inconvenience.

Given the potential for rapid damage escalation due to concentrated rainfall, Han urged all involved officials to maintain an emergency readiness posture. The instructions call for vigilance and a lack of oversight in managing the crisis. Geoje has recorded 782 millimeters of rainfall since August 15, causing widespread road inundation and numerous requests for rescue assistance.

“

As the damage can be severe due to the concentration of rainfall in a short period, officials from local governments, the Forest Service, police, and fire departments must maintain an emergency duty posture and ensure there are no gaps in management.