Typhoon Mitag kills nine, forces evacuation of 1,500 people

The eastern provinces of North Gyeongsang and Gangwon are the most affected areas. A train derailed in Bongwha due to a landslide caused by torrential rains. There is fear that the death toll could go higher given the number of missing.

Seoul (AsiaNews/Agencies) – At least nine people were killed and many more injured after Typhoon Mitag struck the eastern part of the country Wednesday and early Thursday, the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters reported.

Hundreds of homes, businesses and facilities have been inundated or destroyed, whilst more than 1,500 people have been evacuated due to flooding.

According to the authorities, some people were swept to their death by flashfloods as they tried to fix farm irrigation channels, whilst others died in their homes as they collapsed from  landslides. Many fear the death toll might rise given the number of people missing.

In Bonghwa, North Gyeongsang Province, a train (picture 2) was derailed due to landslides. In Uljin, North Gyeongsang Province, and Samcheok, Gangwon Province, many people were forced from their homes. In all, 550 millimeters and over 400 millimeters of rain fell respectively on the two provinces. Ferry services have also been suspended.

• south korea
• torrential rains
• flooding
• casualties
• missing
• typhoon mitag
• train derailment