Roofs collapsed under heavy snowfall weighing 10 kg per m2… Metropolitan areas devastated. [영상]

Heavy Snow Causes Damage in Gyeonggi Province

On November 28, heavy snow hit Gyeonggi Province, causing significant damage across the area. Reports indicate that the snow was unusually heavy, weighing about 10 kg per square meter due to its moisture content. This severe weather resulted in three fatalities in Yongin, Pyeongtaek, and Yangpyeong over two days.

The snowfall measurements showed an average of 26.0 cm, with the highest recorded at 47.5 cm in Yongin. In response, local authorities mobilized 2,129 snow removal vehicles and over 36,000 personnel to manage the situation.

Building Collapses and Accidents

On the same day, significant structural collapses occurred. The roof of an indoor film storage warehouse in Suwon collapsed early in the morning. Later, a temporary building at a metal processing factory in Ansan collapsed, resulting in injuries to a worker. In Osan City, a motel parking structure fell, injuring a nearby man.

Several other buildings also suffered collapses due to the snow load, including part of the Dokkaebi Market arcade and a roof at a traditional market in Ansan. Tragically, a man clearing snow in Yongin lost his life when a tree fell on him.

In Incheon, over 200 people reported injuries, and additional incidents included landslides and further building collapses.

Service Disruptions

Heavy snowfall disrupted air traffic with Incheon International Airport canceling 139 flights by 11 a.m. that day. This disruption extended to domestic airports, with 33 flights canceled across the country.

Public transit was also affected. Subway services faced delays due to snow accumulation, leading to crowded stations and safety concerns for commuters.

In terms of education, 1,174 schools temporarily closed, prompting criticism for late notifications about closures.

Government Response

Gyeonggi Province Governor Kim Dong-yeon declared a “war on snow.” He emphasized a proactive response, allocating resources for emergency measures. The governor also called for a thorough assessment of damages and support for affected businesses.

Local authorities continue working to clear the snow and respond to emergencies as the situation develops.