Over the weekend, approximately 5,000 individuals were rescued from flood-affected regions along North Korea's border with China. The emergency operations were supervised by leader Kim Jong Un, as reported by the country's state media on Monday.
The North Korean army initiated rescue efforts in North Pyongan province following heavy rains that caused severe flooding, leaving thousands of people isolated and at risk. The Amnok River, also known as the Yalu River in China, surpassed the danger line due to record rainfall, particularly impacting Sinuiju City, which faces the Chinese city of Dandong.
Kim Jong Un personally inspected the affected areas, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and criticizing authorities for inadequate disaster preparedness. His visible presence at the scene underscored the gravity of the floods and his commitment to leading the response to what he described as 'disastrous abnormal weather'.
Across Asia, governments are contending with the aftermath of extreme weather events exacerbated by human-induced climate change. Recent heavy rains and flooding, including the impact of Typhoon Gaemi, have caused significant damage in various countries.
In China, regions such as Liaoning province, bordering North Korea's North Pyongan, have experienced heavy rainfall leading to evacuations of over 45,000 residents. Additionally, numerous chemical and mining companies suspended operations to mitigate flood risks.
China's northeast, traditionally less prone to frequent flooding, is now grappling with the effects of heavy rains. Southwest Liaoning remains under an orange rainstorm alert, highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by extreme weather conditions.
