Thousands of coastal residents in South Korea have been evacuated as Tropical Storm Khanun approaches the country’s southern regions. The Korean Meteorological Administration warned that the storm would bring intense rains and winds as it made its way through the Korean Peninsula. The storm is expected to pass over the densely populated Seoul metropolitan area, home to half of South Korea’s population.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has called for aggressive disaster prevention measures and evacuations, citing the recent deadly floods and landslides caused by heavy rain. Khanun is currently passing south of the mainland port of Tongyeong with maximum winds blowing at 126 kph (78 mph).
The storm has already dumped 30 centimeters (12 inches) of rain in some areas and has caused the closure of motorways and cancellation of flights and ferry services. Authorities have advised schools to stay closed or delay their opening and have ordered restrictions in high-risk areas. The storm is expected to weaken as it moves towards North Korea on Friday.
