Proactive Response to Heat Waves and Heavy Rain... Songpa-gu Launches Comprehensive Summer Countermeasures!

From May 15 to October 15: 19 Detailed Measures Across Four Key Areas
Doubling the Number of Extended-Hour Cooling Shelters and Introducing Meal Support to Better Protect Vulnerable Groups
Adding 20 Smart Shade Structures and Strengthening Efforts for Infectious Disease, Flood, and Disaster Prevention

Songpa-gu, Seoul (District Mayor Seo Kangseok) announced on the 20th that it will fully implement the "2025 Comprehensive Summer Countermeasures" for five months, starting until October 15.

This plan was established with the health and safety of residents as the top priority, in light of forecasts for earlier-than-usual heat and monsoon seasons. It will be carried out focusing on 19 detailed tasks across four main areas: ▲heat waves, ▲flood control, ▲safety, and ▲public health.

First, a Heat Wave Countermeasure Headquarters will be operated to intensively maintain heat reduction facilities such as cooling shelters and shade structures. When a heat wave advisory is issued, a "Comprehensive Situation Room" will be operated to establish a real-time response system.

For vulnerable groups such as elderly people living alone and those with mobility difficulties, 188 designated shelters will be operated at community centers, welfare centers, and senior centers. A total of 1,237 disaster helpers will check on the safety of seniors and provide daily life education.

In particular, this year the number of extended-hour shelters (open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.) will be nearly doubled from 14 to 26. Among these, 25 senior centers will receive a monthly support of 100,000 won for four months to strengthen care for seniors vulnerable to heat waves.

Additionally, 20 smart shade structures and 4 fixed shade structures will be newly installed at locations such as Gaerong Station and Seokchon Station to further prevent heat stroke.

Flood control measures have also been strengthened. In preparation for possible unusual heavy rainfall, the Disaster and Flood Countermeasure Headquarters has been operated early since April, with ongoing efforts such as relief for disaster victims, maintenance of disaster-prone areas, and reinforcement of flood prevention facilities in flood-prone zones.

In the public health sector, activities to prevent infectious diseases are being focused, including Legionella bacteria inspections, pest control, and hygiene management at cafeterias and vulnerable restaurants. General hospitals, large public baths, and large buildings are the main targets.

In particular, the district is also focusing on promoting the updated measures and how to respond in various situations. With the Korea Meteorological Administration set to launch the "Direct Heat Wave Impact Forecast Delivery Service" on June 2, the district will actively promote the service so that residents can benefit, and will provide national action guidelines in real time through social media and printed materials.

Seo Kangseok, Mayor of Songpa-gu, stated, "Recognizing that heat waves are also disasters, we will establish a thorough response system without any blind spots so that all residents can have a safe and healthy summer," adding, "We will continue to reduce inconveniences in daily life and focus on prevention through field-oriented, service-centered administration."