Violent Snowstorm Strikes South Korea
Heavy snowfall in South Korea has resulted in four fatalities, the cancellation of dozens of flights, and the suspension of ferries, according to Reuters.
Citing municipal data, Yonhap News Agency reported that this wave of snowfall was the third most intense since records began in 1907.
Fatalities and Flight Cancellations
Over 40 centimeters of snow had accumulated in parts of Seoul by 8 a.m., leading to the cancellation of more than 140 flights.
Meteorological authorities lifted heavy snow warnings in the capital region by 10 a.m. Thursday.
Late Wednesday, one person was killed and two others were injured at a golf course following the collapse of a snow-laden structure. Another individual died in a similar incident involving a tent collapse in a parking lot.
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Reports also revealed highway accidents east of Seoul that resulted in the deaths of at least two more people.
Incheon Airport, Seoul’s main airport, was the most affected, with passengers experiencing average delays of two hours. According to the flight tracking site Flight Radar 24, 14% of flights were delayed, and 15% were canceled.
Transportation Disruptions
Authorities reported that 142 flights were canceled and 99 ferries halted on Thursday. Local media also noted disruptions to rail services.
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The unusually heavy snowfall in November is attributed to warmer-than-usual sea temperatures west of the Korean Peninsula combined with cold air currents.
