Flash Floods and Landslide Risks: South Korea’s Rainy Weekend Ahead!

South Korea is bracing for another round of powerful summer storms as weather officials warn of intense downpours continuing through Saturday. The hardest-hit regions could see up to 300 millimeters of additional rainfall.

The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) is urging nationwide caution, especially in central and southern areas already saturated by earlier storms.

The most severe rainfall is expected to hit southern Gyeonggi Province, central inland areas, and parts of the southern coast, with localized totals potentially exceeding 180 millimeters by the weekend.

The greater Seoul area, including Incheon and Gyeonggi Province, could see up to 120 millimeters of rain. Mountainous regions in Gangwon Province and Jeju Island are also likely to experience prolonged heavy precipitation.
Officials are particularly concerned about the possibility of sudden, high-intensity downpours reaching up to 80 millimeters per hour. These brief but intense bursts of rain are difficult to predict and can quickly overwhelm drainage systems.

According to the KMA, the rainfall pattern will remain erratic, with periods of calm followed by abrupt surges. This unpredictable behavior increases the risk, especially in areas with steep terrain or inadequate infrastructure.

With soil across the country already saturated from earlier rainfall this week, even modest additional accumulation could trigger landslides and flash floods.

Residents are advised to avoid underground roads, streams, and flood-prone areas, particularly during early morning and overnight hours when visibility is low. Emergency authorities are closely monitoring river levels and issuing real-time alerts. Those living near vulnerable slopes or riversides are urged to prepare evacuation plans in case conditions deteriorate.

Temperatures are expected to remain typical for this time of year, with lows between 22 and 26 degrees Celsius and highs from 27 to 31°C. The Ministry of Environment reports that air quality should remain good nationwide.

As rainfall totals continue to rise and the ground reaches its saturation point, officials warn that the next 48 hours will be critical. The KMA is issuing frequent region-specific updates and strongly advises the public to stay informed of local alerts and remain indoors when possible.