Up to 400mm of Heavy Rain... Governor Kim Taeheum Orders Preemptive Action to Prevent Casualties

Flooding and Casualties Reported Across the Province
Full Mobilization in Preparation for Additional Heavy Rain Expected Early on the 18th

Kim Taeheum, Governor of Chungnam Province

Due to heavy rainfall that began on July 16 in Chungnam Province, cumulative precipitation in the province has reached up to 375mm, resulting in flooding and casualties in several areas. In response, the provincial government held an emergency inspection meeting and began strengthening its response system.

At the emergency inspection meeting held in the provincial government’s video conference room on July 17, Kim Taeheum, Governor of Chungnam Province, instructed, "Take preemptive measures to prevent any loss of life as the top priority," and added, "In preparation for additional heavy rain expected early on July 18, carry out advance water releases from reservoirs and dams, and proactively evacuate residents from high-risk areas."

The meeting was attended by Governor Kim, about 30 senior provincial officials and department heads, and the heads or deputy heads of 15 cities and counties. The agenda included sharing the current status of rainfall and damages, as well as reporting on response measures.

As of 9:00 a.m. on July 17, cumulative precipitation in major areas of the province was as follows: Dangjin 375mm, Yesan 356mm, Asan 355mm, Seosan 354mm, and Hongseong 339mm, with some areas approaching 400mm.

As a result of the heavy rain, one person died after a vehicle was submerged on a farm road in Seoknam-dong, Seosan, and in Daechi-myeon, Cheongyang County, two people were buried in a landslide but were rescued.

Additionally, there have been continued reports of damage such as flooding of roads, homes, and farmland. The provincial and municipal governments have urgently evacuated 554 residents from 234 households and are currently controlling access to more than 80 key facilities, including 2 roads, 14 riverside parking lots, and 5 underpasses.

Fire authorities have carried out 1,125 rescue and safety operations.

Governor Kim urged, "Mobilize all available heavy equipment for recovery efforts and strengthen cooperation between counties," and emphasized, "Provide not only daily necessities but also psychological support to evacuees." He also stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of field officials and rescue personnel.

The provincial government plans to continue real-time monitoring of weather conditions and to conduct intensive inspections and rapid emergency restoration in vulnerable areas.