Seoul:Heavy downpours accompanied by strong winds struck Seoul on Sunday, leading to urban flooding and various safety hazards across the city. The severe weather resulted in clogged drainage systems as fallen leaves were swept by high winds, exacerbating the flooding issues.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Gangbuk Ward in the northern part of Seoul experienced the highest hourly rainfall in the country during the storm, with a peak of 53.5 millimeters. By 500 p.m., the city's fire authorities had fielded 129 emergency calls, which included 47 requests for drainage assistance, 21 reports of fallen trees, and 60 safety inspection requests for public facilities.
An emergency alert was issued by Seoul authorities at 316 p.m., advising residents to avoid low-lying and high-risk areas amidst the inclement weather. While heavy rain advisories for several districts were lifted at 330 p.m., intermittent showers continued throughout the afternoon. Cumulative rainfall reached 65 mm in Gangbuk Ward by 500 p.m., whereas Songpa District recorded the lowest at 20 mm.
The rising water levels prompted city officials to restrict access to 16 major urban streams, and traffic disruptions were reported across key routes. Roads beneath the Jeungsan Bridge in Seodaemun Ward were completely blocked due to flooding. Weather warnings urged caution for drivers on major highways due to wet conditions and high winds.
In Gangnam Ward, a fallen tree obstructed a busy road, affecting both traffic and pedestrians. In Eunpyeong Ward, water levels rose above knee height in some low-lying areas. Shop owners were seen clearing leaves from catch basins to aid drainage.
The adverse weather conditions also led to the cancellation of major outdoor events, including the Grand Mint Festival at Olympic Park in Songpa. The city activated Level 1 emergency response protocols at 240 p.m., deploying 12 rainwater pumping stations to clear flooded roads.
A Seoul official noted that despite a decrease in rainfall, damage reports continued to surface, emphasizing the focus on addressing safety concerns and preventing further incidents in collaboration with district offices.