Key Points
- Deadly landslides caused by torrential rains have claimed at least 9 lives in Sancheong County, South Gyeongsang Province.
- Over 7,000 people have been evacuated nationwide, with more than 2,800 unable to return home due to ongoing flooding and destruction.
- Official government figures confirm 5 deaths and 4 missing, but local sources report additional casualties awaiting formal acknowledgment.
- South Gyeongsang Province has been among the hardest hit, with over 700 mm of rain recorded since Wednesday.
- Emergency fire and rescue orders issued nationwide; weather alerts warn of up to 250 mm more rain in coming hours.
Seoul: A relentless monsoon deluge has unleashed chaos across South Korea, with deadly landslides tearing through homes and villages in South Gyeongsang Province. As emergency teams battle dangerous conditions, at least 9 people are reported dead and several others remain unaccounted for, with authorities racing to rescue the missing and assist thousands of displaced residents.
Deadly Landslides Strike Sancheong County
On Saturday morning, a slew of landslides swept through Sancheong County. Houses were suddenly engulfed in mud and debris, leaving a 60-year-old man found unresponsive in cardiac arrest among the victims. Tragedy continued through the day, as further landslides in neighboring villages claimed additional lives and left homes flattened.
Fire authorities reported that the disasters struck three separate villages within just a few hours, underlining the severity of the weather system threatening the region.
Discrepancy in Casualty Figures, Fresh Updates Expected
While South Korea’s Central Disaster and Safety Measures Headquarters has so far officially confirmed 5 deaths and 4 people missing, local officials and rescue teams say the Saturday fatalities have not yet been added to national reports. Updated figures are expected as search and recovery missions continue and the full extent of damage becomes clear.
Rainfall Exceeds 700 mm Worst in Recent Years
South Gyeongsang Province has borne the brunt of the calamity, battered by over 700 millimeters of rain since midweek. The unprecedented rainfall has triggered widespread flooding, numerous landslides, road washouts, and house collapses, leaving thousands isolated or in temporary shelters.
Nationwide Emergency and Ongoing Rescue Efforts
With the situation escalating rapidly, the National Fire Agency has declared a countrywide emergency, mobilizing firefighting and rescue units and putting local governments on high alert. According to official data:
- 7,029 people have been evacuated, with emergency shelters established in schools and community centers.
- Over 2,800 residents are still unable to return home due to unsafe conditions.
- Many roads remain impassable due to landslides and deep waterlogging.
More Heavy Rain Forecast Authorities Warn of Further Danger
The Korea Meteorological Administration issued an urgent warning: up to 250 mm more rain is forecast for already inundated regions by Saturday night. Torrential conditions could persist into Sunday, elevating the risks of additional landslides and structural collapses.
Government and Public Response
President Yoon Suk-yeol has called for rapid rescue and relief operations, emphasizing the priority of saving lives and supporting affected families. Emergency hotlines and relief funds have been activated nationwide to assist those in distress.
- Death toll expected to rise as search efforts continue
- Extensive damage to property and infrastructure across southern South Korea
- Evacuation and emergency orders in place, with more rain on the way
