▲ Heavy Rain
The Ministry of the Interior and Safety announced that as of 4:30 a.m. today (July 18), it has raised the storm and flood crisis alert level to 'Alert' and activated the Level 2 emergency response of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters (CDSCHQ), following the issuance of heavy rain warnings in Seoul, Incheon, Gyeonggi, and Gangwon provinces.
Lee Sang-min, Head of the CDSCHQ (Minister of the Interior and Safety), noted that while some areas have already received over 120 mm of rain since yesterday, forecasts indicate that the Seoul metropolitan area and Gangwon province could see up to 300 mm or more of additional rainfall through tomorrow. He ordered thorough inspections of vulnerable areas, such as underpasses and riverbanks, with the top priority being the prevention of casualties.
He also urged all relevant agencies to make every effort to evacuate residents if there is a risk of danger.
"The government will actively implement all possible measures, even if they seem excessive, to minimize loss of life," the Minister emphasized.
The National Fire Agency also announced that it has preemptively activated the Central Emergency Rescue Control Headquarters to ensure a nationwide response following the issuance of heavy rain warnings in four cities and provinces, including Seoul and Incheon.
The Central Emergency Rescue Control Headquarters is led by the Acting Commissioner of the National Fire Agency and consists of a situation response team, an emergency response team, and an on-site situation management team.
The National Fire Agency plans to respond with full force by monitoring heavy rain damage and firefighting operations in real time, and by rapidly deploying necessary firefighting resources to areas at risk of casualties.
※
Copying, redistribution, and unauthorized use in AI training are strictly prohibited.