Heavy Rain Expected Again from 15th to 17th... Prime Minister Han Urges "Thorough Preparations in Advance"

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo is presiding over a meeting to review the response to heavy rain and damage recovery at the Seoul Situation Center of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters in the Government Seoul Office Building on the 14th. August 14, 2022.
Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Sejong=Reporter Son Seon-hee] Prime Minister Han Duck-soo stated on the 14th, "Heavy rain is expected between tomorrow (the 15th) and Wednesday (the 17th)," and urged, "Central government and local governments, as well as related agencies, must not let their guard down and must thoroughly prepare in advance to minimize damage."

On the same day, Prime Minister Han presided over an unscheduled 'Heavy Rain Response Situation Check Meeting' at the Government Seoul Office and emphasized, "As seen in past cases, significant damage can occur due to concentrated heavy rain in a short period of time that was not anticipated," adding, "The Ministry of the Interior and Safety, Ministry of Environment, National Fire Agency, National Police Agency, Korea Forest Service, Ministry of National Defense, and other related ministries and local governments must ensure there are no gaps in emergency duty posture and make every effort."

Regarding areas where flood damage has already occurred such as Seoul, Gyeonggi, and Gangwon, Prime Minister Han said, "To ensure rapid emergency recovery, mobilize all available personnel and equipment including public officials, military forces, firefighters, and police, and take all possible measures to prevent additional damage."

He continued, "Strengthen surveillance and inspection of areas at risk of landslides and lowland flooding, valleys, and riversides, and especially ensure thorough evacuation guidance for semi-basement houses and vulnerable groups to do your utmost to prevent further casualties."

Prime Minister Han also stated, "The suffering of disaster victims staying in temporary shelters such as village halls and lodging facilities must be great," and urged, "Provide maximum support to ensure they do not experience inconvenience in their stay, and be thorough in safety management including COVID-19 prevention."