The Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters activated its Level One emergency response early Saturday as heavy rain that began in the country's southern coast and Jeju Island is spreading nationwide. A related crisis alert level has also been raised a notch to 'yellow,' indicating 'attention.'  

Interior and Safety Minister Jeon Hae-cheol held a meeting with related agencies and provincial authorities calling for readiness and the immediate operation of emergency systems when weather advisories are issued.

Local governments have been asked to restrict access to mountains, valleys, camp sites, hiking trails and fishing grounds and alert citizens about the updates.

Underpasses, underground parking lots and walkways along streams that are vulnerable to flooding should be blocked to vehicles and pedestrians while residents in landslide-prone areas are urged to evacuate.

The ministry has also called for thorough preparations at COVID-19 testing and vaccination centers to prevent rain damage and possible blackouts that could deal a blow to vaccine storage.