South Korea on high alert amid heavy rain forecast

August 3, 2025

Seoul: Most regions of South Korea are expected to experience heavy rainfall on Sunday, with southern areas facing up to 150 millimeters of rain through Tuesday, according to the national weather agency.

Rain is set to start in the southwestern provinces and Jeju Island during the day, before gradually spreading to the southeastern and central parts of the country, leaving most areas—except those along the East Sea—under the forecast, reported Yonhap news agency citing the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA).

The rainfall is expected to persist until Tuesday, with southern regions such as Busan possibly receiving up to 150 mm of rain. Meanwhile, areas like Sejong and other central regions could see up to 100 mm.

Particularly, intense downpours of 50 to 80 mm per hour are predicted at night along certain parts of South Jeolla Province’s southern coast, near Mount Jiri, and in mountainous areas of Jeju.

Strong winds are also forecast along the west coast of South Jeolla Province, with gusts exceeding 20 meters per second later in the day.

In response to the heavy rain threat, the agriculture ministry has activated a 24-hour emergency response system until Tuesday, working closely with local governments and relevant agencies. Efforts at the local level have been bolstered in flood-prone and landslide-prone areas.

South Gyeongsang Province has raised its emergency alert to Level 1 after an early heavy rain advisory was issued for parts of the region. Likewise, North Jeolla Province also activated a Level 1 alert following a preliminary weather warning for 10 localities.

Authorities have urged residents to stay updated on weather reports, avoid unnecessary travel, and steer clear of risky zones such as riverside trails, slopes, and low-lying roads. Visitors to beaches and campgrounds are advised to exercise caution and evacuate if necessary.

Last month, heavy rains and landslides across South Korea resulted in 23 fatalities and five people unaccounted for nationwide.

As the rains approach, heat wave advisories are expected to be eased or lifted gradually. Temperatures during the day are projected to range between 29°C and 34°C, aligning with or slightly above seasonal norms, the KMA added.