Severe Rainfall Hits Seoul, First Flood Advisory Issued for Dorimcheon Area

Severe localized rainfall in the Dorimcheon area of Seoul has led to rising water levels in rivers and drainage systems, prompting the government to issue a flood advisory. This marks the first flood advisory since the urban flood forecasting system was implemented in 2024.

The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment announced on July 9 at 12:40 p.m. that a flood advisory was issued for areas near the Sindebang Station, Sillim Station, and Boramae Station. The advisory affects the districts of Gwanak, Guro, Yeongdeungpo, and Dongjak.

According to the Han River Flood Control Center, real-time analysis of drainage and river water levels, along with rainfall data from the Korea Meteorological Administration, indicated that surface water levels were expected to approach or exceed the flood threshold of 15 centimeters. As a precaution, the advisory was issued before any flooding occurred.

This advisory is the first to be issued since the implementation of the "Urban River Basin Flood Damage Prevention Act" in March 2024. The urban flood forecasting system analyzes river levels, drainage levels, and rainfall to provide advance warnings of urban flooding risks.

Residents in the areas under the flood advisory are advised to check the "flood risk areas based on my location" in safety guidance messages and to avoid low-lying areas and underground spaces. Local governments, along with police and fire departments, are enhancing on-site inspections and preparing to activate disaster prevention facilities.

Kim Gu-beom, head of the Han River Flood Control Center, stated, "As this is the first flood advisory issued since the urban flood forecasting system became operational, we will closely monitor the situation and respond thoroughly in cooperation with relevant ministries and local governments."