Rescuers in South Korea are facing a challenging task as they try to reach cars trapped in a flooded tunnel following days of heavy rain. The tunnel, located in Cheongju, North Chungcheong province, is reported to have approximately 19 vehicles trapped inside. The exact number of people trapped remains unclear. The heavy rainfall has caused widespread flooding and landslides across the country, resulting in at least 22 confirmed deaths and 14 people reported missing.
In the mountainous North Gyeongsang region, landslides have caused significant damage, sweeping away houses and leading to most of the reported fatalities. Aerial images from the affected areas show floodwaters and mud, with only the tops of roofs visible.
Evacuation orders have been issued by local governments, affecting thousands of residents. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has requested military assistance for the rescue efforts. The flash flood that inundated the tunnel in Cheongju occurred too quickly for drivers and passengers to escape, leading to one confirmed fatality and the rescue of nine individuals.
In addition to the tunnel incident, other areas have been severely impacted by the heavy rain. The Goesan Dam overflowed, resulting in the evacuation of approximately 6,400 residents. Low-lying villages and connecting roads were submerged, leaving some residents trapped in their homes. A landslide also caused a train to derail in North Chungcheong, resulting in one injury. The national rail operator has suspended slow trains and some bullet train services, with further disruptions expected.
The Korea Meteorological Administration has warned of more rainfall until Wednesday, describing the weather conditions as a “grave” danger. Similar extreme rain events have occurred in other countries, including India, China, and Japan, over the past few weeks. Scientists emphasize that climate change contributes to these extreme weather events by increasing the likelihood of intense rainfall due to a warming atmosphere that can hold more moisture.