A fierce snowstorm has gripped South Korea, causing chaos and disruption across the capital, Seoul and surrounding areas, with record-breaking snowfall recorded as the most significant for November since weather observations began over 117 years ago. The massive storm, which began on November 27, has claimed multiple lives and resulted in widespread transportation crises and numerous accidents.
According to reports, Seoul received around 27.8 centimeters of snow, topping the previous records set back in 1972 when the city recorded 12.4 cm. Other areas also faced immense snow accumulation, including Gyeonggi Province, where cities like Suwon saw upwards of 40 cm. The storm has created not only beautiful winter scenes but also hazardous conditions, leading to at least five confirmed fatalities.
The initial snowfall on Wednesday caught many off guard, disrupting flights and causing traffic accidents. Over 150 flights were canceled, with significant delays reported at major transport hubs like the busy hub at Inchon International Airport. Ferry services were also suspended, leaving many travelers stranded.
Witnessing the aftermath of the storm, pedestrians struggled to navigate streets clogged with snow and fallen trees. Power outages affected several families, particularly those living near Seongbuk District, where heavy snow led to trees collapsing onto power lines and homes, leaving over 170 households temporarily powerless.
Emergency services were stretched thin as responders dealt with the consequences of the storm. Authorities reported conducting over 1,200 rescue operations over the two-day period. Regions affected were not limited to just infrastructure but included civilian casualties. Tragically, several individuals perished as structures collapsed under the sheer weight of the snow, including the canopy of a factory and home injuries caused by falling trees.
This kind of snowfall is not typical for November, marking the heaviest amount recorded since the onset of modern weather tracking. The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) has issued warnings for residents, reminding them to stay indoors and avoid travel, particularly as icy conditions pose risks of accidents.
Even as citizens did their best to adapt to the winter wonderland, schools faced disruption too. According to the Ministry of Education, nearly 1,300 schools were closed across affected areas, and many more adjusted schedules to keep students safe.
Yet, amid all the emergency measures, some have opted for adventure, posting pictures on social media, as people tried their hand at winter sports and enjoyed playful snowball fights, reminiscent of scenes from holiday postcards.
The snowstorm touches on broader concerns about climate change and extreme weather conditions, leading to intense discussions on preparedness and response strategies for such severe weather patterns. Many citizens are calling for more resilient infrastructure and rapid response strategies to adapt to these growing weather anomalies.
Despite the disruptions the snowstorm has brought, it has also highlighted the spirit of community, as neighbors help each other clear pathways and rally together during the crisis. With the snow expected to ease over the following days, residents across Seoul and the surrounding areas are cautiously hopeful, though the damage and chaos may take longer to recover from. This snowstorm is just another trial for the South Korean populace but also serves as a stark reminder of the impact of nature’s fury during the season of festivity.
