Devastating Floods in North Korea: Thousands Displaced

Recent heavy rains in northwestern North Korea have caused severe flooding, leaving thousands homeless. The floods impacted agricultural fields and infrastructure, prompting emergency responses including evacuations and relief efforts. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered new housing and stricter disaster prevention measures.

The recent heavy rains in northwestern North Korea have left thousands homeless, as reported on Wednesday by the state media. The deluge flooded numerous houses and farmlands, forcing residents to seek shelter in makeshift tents.

The floods also led to the airlift and evacuation of over 5,000 people stranded in Sinuiju city and Uiju town. Initial reports did not mention specific damages or casualties.

Poor drainage, deforestation, and aging infrastructure make North Korea particularly vulnerable to summer floods. The Korean Central News Agency detailed that 4,100 houses, 3,000 hectares of agricultural fields, and various public buildings, roads, and railways were affected.

Around 150 people in Jagang province were isolated due to separate river flooding but were successfully evacuated by military helicopters. No casualties have been reported so far.

In a Politburo meeting led by Kim Jong Un, officials committed to constructing 4,400 houses and reinforcing embankments in the affected areas. Kim directed immediate relief efforts and advocated for strict punishment of those who failed in disaster prevention duties. New appointments were also made to bolster disaster response.

Kim noted a lack of accurate population data, which led to rescues exceeding initial expectations.

(With inputs from agencies.)