South Korea faced its third-heaviest snowfall on record in Seoul on Thursday, disrupting flights, ferries, and schools, while leaving at least four people dead. More than 40cm (16in) of snow blanketed the capital, breaking November records, as weather officials lifted heavy snow warnings later in the morning. Tragic incidents included collapses of snow-laden structures and fatal highway accidents, with additional injuries reported in a massive 53-vehicle pile-up in Gangwon province.
Seoul’s Incheon Airport saw significant disruptions, with 15% of flights canceled and delays averaging two hours. Ferry services across 76 routes were suspended, and some schools in Gyeonggi province were authorized to close. Authorities attributed the unusual snowfall to warm seawaters meeting cold air currents.
The rare November snowstorm extended its reach to neighboring North Korea, where up to 10cm (4in) of snow fell earlier in the week. While conditions began to ease on Thursday, the heavy snow highlighted the challenges posed by extreme and unpredictable weather patterns.
