Flooding in South Korea. Photo: alleks19760526 / Shutterstock.com A heavy rain warning remains in effect today, August 17, 2026, across the entire city of Geoje, South Korea, severely impacted by flooding and landslides after record-breaking rainfall of 124.5 mm in a single hour. Cumulative rainfall over several days has exceeded 700 to 800 mm in some areas.
Gyeongsangnam-do authorities have urged residents to continue to stay away from rivers, valleys, steep slopes, and irrigation canals and to evacuate immediately if instructed because of the ongoing risks of landslides and river flooding.
Authorities warned that Mundong Reservoir faces a high risk of overflowing, advising nearby residents to evacuate to higher ground immediately.
The Korea Water Resources Corporation also warned of rising water levels following planned natural discharges from two dams.
Natural discharge from Yeoncho Dam was expected to begin at 3:30 p.m. on August 17 at a rate of no more than 60 tons per second. At the same time, Guchon Dam was expected to discharge up to 80 tons per second. People near rivers were urged to move to safe locations as water levels were expected to rise.
The Korea Rural Community Corporation separately warned that record rainfall had caused reservoir levels to rise in the Geoje area, creating a risk of levee overflow. Residents in low-lying areas were advised to exercise caution, including evacuating if necessary.
The Gohyeoncheon Stream was placed under a severe flood alert at 1 a.m. Residents near riverbanks, walking paths and low-lying roads were told to stay away and nearby residents were advised to evacuate.
Geoje City later reported partial flooding along Suwolcheon and Gohyeoncheon as water levels rose. Vehicle and pedestrian traffic was prohibited around Gohyeoncheon, while residents in the Seojeongcheon area were told not to go outside after the stream overflowed.
Flooding and landslides have caused widespread transport restrictions.
Geoje City said major roads and terminals had been flooded, forcing the suspension of city and intercity bus services. Taxi operations were also suspended, with both services expected to resume depending on weather and recovery conditions.
Drivers were warned to avoid flooded roads and restricted areas, while authorities reported road damage and debris following overnight rainfall.
Geoje City urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel and remain at home where possible.
A landslide warning for Geoje City is still in effect, with authorities prohibiting access to and passage around forests and advising residents to evacuate to locations away from forests, including village halls and schools.