Tropical depression dumps heavy rain in South Korea

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SEOUL (AP) – A tropical depression dumped heavy rain in southern South Korea and the populous Seoul region on Wednesday after weakening from a tropical storm.

Some southern parts of the mainland and the island of Jeju recorded 10 to 16 centimetres of rain. Some areas in the capital region saw eight to nine centimetres of rain as of Wednesday morning.

The depression that was once Tropical Storm Jongdari made landfall Wednesday and South Korea’s weather agency said the system was expected to dissipate soon.

No injuries have been reported. At least 19 vehicles were damaged by floods in the southern town of Ulju and the nearby city of Ulsan, according to South Korea’s Ministry of the Interior and Safety. Emergency workers also responded to at least one flooded home, the ministry said.

Government officials had urged public vigilance and monitoring of areas like underground passageways and basement dwellings that are at high risk of flooding.

Dozens of roads and many public parks were closed.

High waves crash ashore as Typhoon Jongdari approaches Jeju Island, South Korea. PHOTO: AP