Typhoon Megi Penetrates Southern Part of Korea Today

Typhoon Megi, the 15th typhoon this year, is expected to sweep through the southern part of the Korean Peninsula this morning. Because Megi is accompanied by heavy rain and strong winds, is rushing northward, and is growing in power, it is likely to cause considerable damage in Korea.

As of 12 a.m. yesterday, it was classified as “powerful” in terms of intensity and “medium” in terms of size. Megi is now moving northeast with high speeds and is expected to reach the southern coast of the Korean Peninsula at 3 a.m. today before passing through the southeast coast off Ullungdo Island around 3 p.m. on the same day, according to the Korea Meteorological Administration.

Heavy rain, from 100 to 400mm, with strong winds is expected to drench Jeju Island, the southern, and the eastern regions of the nation during this morning.

Megi is expected to leave the Korean Peninsula by late afternoon today, and clear skies will gradually appear.

Megi has gotten stronger as the temperature of the seawater has increased due to the nation’s recent hot weather.

As Megi was moving north, it caused serious damage yesterday and inundated houses and farmlands in Jeju, the southern region of Jeonnam, and the western region of Gyeongnam by pouring heavy rain into those areas. Heavy rains of over 300 mm were recorded.

As of 4 p.m. on the same day, Naju received 353.5 mm, Wando received 316.5 mm, Bojil Island received 308.0 mm, Daedeok received 304.5 mm, Hwasun received 270.5 mm, Jeju Eorimok received 186.0 mm, Hapcheon received 190.0 mm, Chilgok received 189.0 mm, and Sancheong received 176.0 mm of rain.

Wan-Bae Lee roryrery@donga.com