Heavy Rain Floods Seoul Roads and Disrupts Traffic

Heavy rain and strong winds caused localized flooding and traffic disruption across Seoul on Sunday, prompting road closures and emergency drainage work as authorities responded to reports from several districts.

A lower road beneath Jeungsan Bridge in Seodaemun District was flooded and closed in both directions from 3:04 p.m., according to Seoul's traffic information system. Drivers on sections of major expressways, including the route between Yangjae and Anseong, also received alerts warning them to take care because of wet roads and gusty conditions.

Flooding was reported near Yeonsinnae Station in Eunpyeong District, where vehicles moved slowly through standing water. Water rose above knee level in some places. The Jungnang Stream also swelled after a large amount of rain fell over a short period.

Fallen autumn leaves were believed to have worsened the situation by clogging drainage channels and slowing the flow of water. Seoul officials said complaints about flooding and rain damage were being received and handled as they came in. The city coordinated with district offices to clear leaves from drains and carry out pumping and drainage work in waterlogged areas.

Strong winds added to the disruption. A roadside tree fell in Yeoksam-dong in Gangnam District, obstructing the movement of vehicles and pedestrians. Images from the city also showed people sheltering from wind-driven rain as the abrupt spell of severe autumn weather swept through the capital.

The conditions affected scheduled outdoor events as well. The Grand Mint Festival, which had been due to take place at Olympic Park in Songpa District, was canceled. Organizer Mint Paper said continuing bad weather made it practically impossible to stage the performances as prepared and announced that ticket holders would receive full refunds.

A Seoul city official said the rain appeared to be easing, but damage reports were still arriving. The city was focusing on resolving reported problems quickly while continuing to work with local authorities.

The episode highlighted how short bursts of intense rainfall can overwhelm urban drainage even outside the summer monsoon season, particularly when wind and seasonal leaf fall combine to obstruct runoff. Residents and motorists were urged to remain alert to flooded roads, swollen waterways and debris while cleanup and drainage operations continued.