Typhoon Khanun, with winds reaching speeds of up to 44 meters per second, is expected to make landfall on South Korea’s southeastern coast later this week, according to the Korea Meteorological Administration. The typhoon is projected to approach the waters southwest of Busan on Thursday, packing strong winds that could derail a running train. However, the agency notes that the forecast is subject to change.
As Khanun moves towards Busan, it is anticipated to bring strong winds exceeding 15 meters per second across South Korea. The typhoon is forecasted to pass vertically over the Korean Peninsula, with its center potentially reaching as close as 40 kilometers northwest of North Korea’s Hamhung on Friday. By Saturday, it may continue past China’s northeast and weaken into an extratropical cyclone.
The impact of Typhoon Khanun is expected to be felt across different regions of South Korea until Thursday. The southeast coast is likely to experience winds of around 40 meters per second, while the rest of the country may face winds ranging from 15 to 35 meters per second. Gangwon Province is expected to receive heavy rainfall between Wednesday and Thursday, with accumulations possibly reaching up to 400 millimeters. Other regions can anticipate rainfall ranging from 50 to 200 millimeters.
To ensure the safety of residents, the government’s Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters has raised the disaster readiness alert level from 1 to 2. As a precautionary measure, access to disaster-prone areas such as mountains, underpasses, and old reservoir zones will be restricted. Additionally, authorities plan to evacuate residents residing in high-risk areas in an effort to prevent casualties.
The news of Typhoon Khanun’s approach has garnered attention, causing concerns about its potential impact. The severity of the typhoon, coupled with the safety precautions taken by the government, underscores the importance of preparing for extreme weather events. As the situation develops, it is crucial for individuals to stay updated on the latest forecasts and follow instructions from local authorities.