A snowstorm hits South Korea, canceling 163 flights
South Korea, and specifically its southern regions, experienced a wave of bad weather and a strong snowstorm that led to widespread disruption in air traffic. Jeju International Airport announced today the cancellation of a large number of flights, causing thousands of passengers to be stranded and disrupting travel plans to and from the popular tourist island.
Details of air traffic disruption in Jeju
The operator of Jeju International Airport reported that the ongoing snowstorm sweeping across southern Japan has resulted in the cancellation of 163 out of 461 scheduled flights for the day. In addition to the cancellations, five other flights were diverted after being unable to land due to poor weather conditions and low visibility.
Airport officials confirmed that waiting areas were extremely crowded, with thousands of passengers finding themselves stranded at the airport awaiting improved weather conditions or alternative travel options. Officials anticipated that flight operations would remain disrupted or significantly delayed even after services partially resumed, due to the lingering effects of the storm and snow accumulation on the runways.
Field situation and snow accumulation
In related weather news, mountainous regions have experienced heavy snowfall. Reports indicate that areas near Mount Halla, South Korea's highest peak located on Jeju Island, received 21.5 centimeters of snow in the past 24 hours. This snowfall is accompanied by strong winds, causing a significant drop in temperatures and making snow removal from airport runways and main roads more difficult.
Tourist importance and weather impact
These weather disruptions are particularly significant given Jeju Island's status as a major tourist destination, often referred to as "Korea's Hawaii." The island's economy relies heavily on tourism and visitors from mainland Korea and abroad. Therefore, any disruption at Jeju International Airport has a significant impact on the region's tourism and hospitality sectors, as well as on business activity.
South Korea usually experiences severe cold waves in winter, but snowstorms that lead to airport closures of this magnitude require a mobilization by local authorities and the Ministry of Transport to ensure the safety of travelers and provide the necessary logistical support to those affected.
Safety procedures and warnings
South Korean authorities have urged residents and visitors in the southern regions to exercise extreme caution, avoid driving on mountain roads unless absolutely necessary, and continuously monitor weather updates and flight schedules before heading to airports. Emergency teams are currently working around the clock to reopen runways and secure access roads to the airport to ensure a return to normal operations as soon as the storm subsides.
