As Tropical Storm Khanun ominously approaches South Korea, authorities are taking swift action to ensure the safety of tens of thousands of scouts attending the World Scout Jamboree. With the storm projected to make landfall by Thursday morning, urgent evacuation measures are being implemented in coordination with international organizations. South Korean officials are mobilizing resources to transport scouts to safer locations away from the storm’s path, while providing necessary support during their stay.
Starting Tuesday, South Korea will deploy approximately a thousand buses to evacuate over 36,000 scouts from 156 countries who are currently attending the World Scout Jamboree in Buan, a southwestern county in South Korea. Recognizing the potential risks, the country’s Ministry of the Interior and Safety is orchestrating the relocation of scouts to various venues in Seoul, the capital city, and its nearby metropolitan regions. Government training centers and education facilities are being secured to accommodate the scouts during this challenging period. The entire evacuation process is estimated to take at least six hours, after which the campsite will no longer be used for any event.
The urgency to move the scouts from the storm’s path has prompted the World Organization of the Scout Movement to call on South Korea for immediate action. The organization is working closely with South Korean authorities to provide essential resources and support to participants until they safely return to their respective countries.
South Korea’s weather agency predicts that Tropical Storm Khanun will bring powerful winds, reaching speeds of up to 154 kilometers (95 miles) per hour when it makes landfall on Thursday morning. The southern regions of South Korea, including Buan, are expected to experience the storm’s impact as early as Wednesday. President Yoon Suk Yeol’s office has already initiated contingency plans, including the possibility of relocating scouts to hotels and other secure facilities in Seoul and nearby metropolitan areas. Taking a rather unusual path, the storm has significantly affected Japan’s southwestern islands, causing heavy rain, power outages, and transportation disruptions.
Prior to the storm’s arrival, the World Scout Jamboree faced challenges due to high temperatures, prompting the departure of several British and American scouts. The lack of tree cover and protection from the scorching summer heat raised concerns among critics even before the event commenced. Heat-related ailments affected a significant number of participants. Authorities have been proactive in monitoring and treating such conditions.
South Korea is demonstrating its commitment to the safety and well-being of the scouts attending the World Scout Jamboree by diligently coordinating evacuation plans and offering suitable accommodations in the face of Tropical Storm Khanun. The worldwide scouting community and international organizations are working collaboratively to ensure the smooth and secure relocation of all participants. As the storm approaches, South Korea’s weather agency predicts that Khanun will weaken within the next five days. Despite the challenges posed by these unforeseen circumstances, the priority remains the safeguarding of all those involved.
The Business Press 