Rainy season arrives in Gwangju and South Jeolla Province; Bogil Island records 40.5 mm per hour
This summer's rainy season has begun in Gwangju and South Jeolla Province.
According to the Gwangju Regional Meteorological Administration, cumulative rainfall as of 8 a.m. Wednesday was highest on Bogil Island in Wando at 107.5 millimeters. Other notable totals included 87 mm on Seogeochado Island in Jindo, 85 mm on Geomundo Island in Yeosu, 83 mm in Seongjeon, Gangjin, 82 mm in Bugil, Haenam, and 57.9 mm at the Korea Meteorological Administration station in Unam-dong, Gwangju.
Hourly rainfall at key locations reached 40.5 mm on Bogil Island and 30.7 mm at the meteorological station.
No damage had been reported to the fire department as of Wednesday morning. Minor safety measures were carried out, including the removal of fallen street trees.
Trails at national parks including Mudeungsan and Wolchulsan were fully closed after the weather agency issued heavy rain advisories.
The meteorological administration said the rain, brought by a stationary front, marks this year's first monsoon rainfall. Last year's rainy season began June 19.
The rain is expected to ease temporarily in some areas starting in the afternoon before continuing through the evening.
Forecast rainfall totals are 5 to 40 mm for Gwangju and northern South Jeolla Province, and 20 to 60 mm for southern South Jeolla Province.
The southern coast and southern western coast of South Jeolla Province could see intense rainfall of 20 to 30 mm per hour.
Daytime temperatures are expected to climb to around 30 degrees Celsius, making conditions hot and humid.
The monsoon rain is forecast to ease Wednesday evening before returning Saturday.
"Heavy rain falling in a short period can cause streams and rivers to rise suddenly, so please take care of your safety," a meteorological administration official said.
kkm9971@heraldcorp.com
