South Korea’s capital, Seoul, has been blanketed by its most substantial November snowfall in over 100 years, leading to significant disruptions across the city.
Record-Breaking Snowfall
On November 27, 2024, Seoul received 18 centimeters (7.1 inches) of snow by mid-afternoon, marking the heaviest November snowfall since records began in 1907.
Transportation Disruptions
The heavy snowfall caused widespread transportation issues:
- Air Travel: Over 200 flights were canceled or delayed due to severe weather conditions. Рейтер
- Maritime Services: At least 70 ferry services were suspended, affecting travel to and from various islands. Рейтер
- Road Traffic: Icy and snow-covered roads led to numerous traffic accidents, including a fatal five-vehicle collision in Hongcheon. AP News
Power Outages and Infrastructure Damage
The snowstorm also resulted in:
- Power Outages: Thousands of households in Seoul and central regions experienced power cuts due to damaged electricity lines. Рейтер
- Structural Damage: Strong winds accompanying the snowfall caused debris from buildings and construction sites to fall, injuring pedestrians. Рейтер
Government Response
In response to the severe weather, the Interior Ministry upgraded its disaster response level, warning of continued snowfall at rates of up to 5 centimeters per hour until Thursday morning. Authorities remain on high alert for additional snow and its associated risks.
This unprecedented snowfall has highlighted the need for enhanced preparedness and infrastructure resilience in the face of extreme weather events.
