As heavy rain is forecasted for this weekend, there has been a warning that rain boots, which are typically worn to prevent getting wet, may actually pose a risk in situations of torrential downpours.

On July 17, posters distributed by Japan's NHK outlining evacuation guidelines during heavy rain were being shared across multiple online communities.

Japan NHK Heavy Rain Evacuation Guidelines Poster Shared
Do Not Wear Rain Boots, Recommended to Move with Others
Avoid Easily Slipped-Off Sandals and Slippery Shoes

The poster, titled "Precautions to Take When Evacuating on Foot," emphasizes several points: do not wear rain boots, do not enter flooded areas, and move with others rather than alone during evacuation. In particular, it states that rain boots can become heavy and hinder movement when filled with water, making lace-up sneakers more suitable for evacuation purposes.

It is known that rain boots can actually become a hazard in situations where water rises suddenly. In July last year, Fuji News Network (FNN) advised, "To prevent injuries, wear long sleeves, long pants, and sneakers," and added, "Avoid rain boots that become heavy and difficult to move in once water gets inside, as well as sandals that can easily come off and slippery shoes. Wear a raincoat instead of an umbrella."

They also stated, "If the water level exceeds about knee height for an adult (approximately 50 cm), it may become difficult to walk due to water pressure, so deep water should be avoided. Even shallow water with a current can sweep you off your feet, so you should not enter flowing water."

Japan's Nittere News also cited a disaster prevention expert in August last year, stating, "It is better not to wear rain boots during flooding or inundation." They pointed out, "While rain boots are not a problem in normal rain, if they become submerged, water can enter from the top, making it difficult to walk. The boots themselves also become heavy, increasing the risk that your legs may get stuck, which is dangerous."

They further explained, "In such cases, you should choose sneakers that can be securely tied with laces so they do not come off in the water."

If water rises suddenly, it is recommended to wear a raincoat instead of an umbrella
Avoid deep water and do not enter flowing water
Choose sneakers that can be tied securely to prevent them from coming off in the water

Since July 16, heavy rainfall has caused flooding of homes and vehicles and resulted in casualties across the country. In Daejeon, Sejong, and Chungnam?areas hit by an "extreme rainfall event that occurs once in 200 years"?roads and houses were flooded, resulting in three fatalities.

In Gwangju and Jeonnam, sudden surges of rainwater led to numerous cases of vehicles and drivers being stranded. Subway stations were also flooded, causing service suspensions. In Daegu and Gyeongbuk, more than 140 mm of rain fell, resulting in flooded vehicles and landslides, among other damages.

According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, the rain, accompanied by gusty winds, thunder, and lightning, is expected to continue until July 19. On July 18 and 19, 100?200 mm of rain is forecasted for Gwangju, Jeonnam, Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongnam, with up to 300 mm or more expected in Jeonnam, the southern coast, Jirisan, Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongnam.