Record-breaking downpours have lashed three southern regions of South Korea - Gyeongsangnam-do,Chungcheongnam-do, and Jeollanam-do - causing widespread flooding and landslides. In the city of Gunsan, 131.7 mm of rain fell in just one hour on Wednesday, exceeding 10% of the region's average annual rainfall. "Rain of this scale has only been seen once in 200 years," the Korea Meteorological Administration told Yonhap news agency.
The torrential rains have caused significant damage to property, roads, and infrastructure. Landslide warnings have been issued for 50 regions, prompting the evacuation of over 3,500 people from hazardous areas.
Local television has broadcast footage of overwhelmed rivers and inundated roads. At least four people have been killed in the disaster.