Gyeongnam Governor Park Wansu Issues Emergency Statement: "Praying for the Deceased, Committed to Searching for the Missing and Recovery Efforts"

"I offer my deepest condolences for those who lost their lives due to the heavy rain."

Park Wansu, Governor of Gyeongnam Province, issued an emergency statement on July 20 regarding the damage caused by the torrential rain that hit various parts of the province.

Governor Park said, "Since July 16, torrential rain has caused significant damage across the province. In particular, Sancheong experienced nearly 100mm of rainfall per hour, with over 750mm of rain falling over three days. This is an unprecedented and extreme downpour."

He continued, "Regrettably, in Sancheong and other areas, landslides and swift currents caused by sudden heavy rain have resulted in the deaths of eight residents and the disappearance of six others. I sincerely pray for the souls of the deceased and extend my deepest condolences and sympathy to the bereaved families who have suddenly lost their loved ones."

He also stated, "To the families of the missing who are anxiously waiting for their loved ones, I assure you that Gyeongnam Province and the fire authorities are doing their utmost in the search efforts," adding, "I wish a speedy recovery to those injured by the rain damage."

Park Wansu, Governor of Gyeongnam Province, is holding an emergency meeting after visiting the heavy rain damage site in Sancheong County. Photo by Gyeongnam Province

Governor Park emphasized, "We will do our best to search for the missing and restore the damage. All staff remain on emergency duty, and as soon as damage is reported, we are conducting on-site investigations and deploying emergency restoration teams for a swift response."

He added, "In particular, for areas where the deployment of equipment or personnel is urgently needed, the Provincial Disaster Headquarters and the relevant city or county are coordinating to take immediate action, doing everything possible to prevent further damage. We are mobilizing all available equipment and personnel to prevent and recover from the damage, with the highest priority placed on ensuring the safety of our residents."

Governor Park stated, "We will remain vigilant until the search for the missing and the restoration process are completed, and we will make every effort to prevent any secondary damage in the future."

Since July 16, an average of 280.8mm of rain has fallen in Gyeongnam, flooding roads, rivers, vehicles, houses, and greenhouses across the province and covering them with debris.

As of 3:00 p.m. on July 20, ten people have died, two have been seriously injured, and four are missing.

Damage was reported at 433 public facilities and 63 private facilities.