Vaidehi Bhargava
South Korea experienced its heaviest November snowfall in more than a century, with parts of northern Seoul blanketed by 20 to 26 centimeters of snow on Wednesday. This surpasses the previous record of 12 centimeters in November 1912, according to the Korea Meteorological Administration.
The snowstorm has claimed at least five lives, grounded hundreds of flights, and caused widespread power outages, affecting hundreds of households. Authorities issued a heavy snow warning, urging residents to avoid outdoor activities and vehicle use while cautioning against potential dangers like falling trees and debris.
The severe weather disrupted transportation across the country. At least 317 flights were canceled or delayed, while 90 ferries were ordered to stay docked at ports in Seoul. Hiking trails were also closed as a precaution. The snowstorm caused significant damage, with emergency workers responding to incidents involving fallen trees, toppled road signs, and other debris across affected areas.
President Yoon Suk Yeol directed safety and transport ministries to deploy all available resources to mitigate public inconvenience and damage. He emphasized the importance of swift action to ensure public safety during the ongoing crisis.
Despite the chaos, no school closures have been reported so far, though emergency responders remain on high alert. Authorities are closely monitoring conditions as the snowstorm continues to move across the country.
The Korea Meteorological Administration has forecast continued snowfall for most regions on Thursday, with rates potentially reaching up to 5 centimeters per hour. The interior ministry has reiterated warnings to residents, advising caution and preparedness as the weather worsens.
As South Korea grapples with its most significant November snowfall in over a century, officials are racing to manage the impact of the storm, ensuring minimal disruption to daily life while prioritizing public safety.