Less rain fell than in Haenam... Why 80% of rainfall damage concentrated in Mokpo

The city of Mokpo in South Korea experienced 80% more damage from the recent heavy rainfall compared to other areas, despite receiving less rainfall overall. According to the fire department's reports, a total of 142 reports were filed, with 115 coming from the Mokpo region, accounting for 80.9% of all complaints. Nearby areas like Hwanam (7 reports), Yeongam (6 reports), and Yeosu (4 reports) saw significantly fewer cases.

Meteorological data from the Korea Meteorological Administration shows that Hwanam received the most rainfall at 204mm, followed by Yeongam (186.4mm) and Hwanam (184mm), while Mokpo recorded 166.5mm. Although Hwanam and Yeongam received more precipitation, Mokpo saw a disproportionate number of flood reports. The analysis suggests that the heavy rainfall coincided with high tide, leading to widespread flooding.

At 4:40 am on the 16th, the high tide, known as "making tide," coincided with the heaviest rainfall of the day, with up to 64.2mm of rain falling hourly. Mokpo, being a city built along the sea and canals, is particularly vulnerable to flooding during high tides. In the past, on July 24, 2023, heavy rain during the high tide caused water damage to 40 homes and submerged a major expressway.

Mokpo reported 83 total incidents of road and home flooding following the 16th, with 30 road and 35 home floods. The city is actively collecting damage reports and conducting field investigations to accurately assess the extent of damage to public and private facilities, and plans to establish a recovery plan. Support will be provided to affected residents according to the relevant standards, and emergency repair efforts are prioritized in the most affected areas.