At least 47 people die as South Korea hit by powerful typhoon

SOLDIERS and anti-disaster officials in South Korea yesterday began clearing up after the most powerful typhoon to hit the country in 40 years left at least 47 people dead and 33 missing in flash floods and landslides.

The government’s National Disaster Prevention and Countermeasures Headquarters was trying to confirm reports another 47 people were swept away by floodwaters or buried in landslides caused by Typhoon Rusa.

“Reports of casualties are coming in from everywhere. Considering past typhoon damages, we believe the death toll would hover over 100,” said an official at anti-disaster headquarters.