Flooding Reported Across Seoul as Fallen Leaves Block Drains Amid Heavy Rain

Heavy rain pounding Seoul has caused rain-related damages in various parts of the city.

According to the Seoul Transport Operation and Information Service, the underpass of Jeungsangyo Bridge in Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, has been completely closed in both directions starting at 3:04 p.m. today (October 18) due to flooding from the rainfall.

Urgent safety alerts regarding slippery roads and strong winds were also issued for multiple sections of expressways, including the Gyeongbu Expressway between Yangjae and Anseong.

Damages caused by strong winds and heavy downpours continue to pour in throughout downtown areas.

In Yeoksam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, a tree was knocked down by a sudden gust of wind.

The fallen tree blocked the middle of the road, disrupting traffic and pedestrian movement.


Near Yeonsinnae Station in Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul, roads were submerged, forcing vehicles to crawl at a slow pace.

In some areas, water levels rose above knee-height.

The Jungnangcheon Stream in Seoul also saw rising water levels as a large amount of rain fell in a short period.

Experts attribute the poor drainage to fallen leaves blocking the drainage systems.

Outdoor performances scheduled for today were also canceled due to deteriorating weather conditions.

Mint Paper, the organizer of the Grand Mint Festival scheduled at Olympic Park in Songpa-gu, Seoul, announced full refunds, stating, "As adverse weather conditions persist, we judged that it is practically impossible to deliver the prepared performances."


The Seoul Metropolitan Government stated that it is responding immediately to ongoing reports and complaints regarding flooding and rain damage.

It explained that upon receiving complaints, it is in close communication with relevant autonomous districts, instructing them to clear fallen leaves piled up in drains and carry out drainage operations in waterlogged areas while seeking cooperation.

An official from the Seoul Metropolitan Government said, "Although the rain appears to be entering a lull, flood damage reports are still coming in, so we are focusing our response on resolving them quickly."

(Photo: Provided by a reader, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.