PM calls for ‘excessive’ readiness against natural disasters

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo called Friday for preparing against summer season natural disasters "to the point it seems excessive." Han's remark came as record downpours drenched the country this week, leaving at least five people dead and forcing thousands to evacuate, especially in the southern regions. "Showers and heat waves are forecast to hit various parts of the nation alternately next week," he wrote on his Facebook page. "In order to minimize loss of lives, there is no other way than to prepare to the point it seems excessive." Han inspected a neighborhood with semi-basement apartments Thursday and learned about the installation of flood-prevention screens on their windows. He also visited a fire station to speak with emergency responders and learn about their operations. "As climate disasters have become routine, the government will do its best to protect the lives and safety of the people," he wrote. "I ask all public servants to attend to their duties with the attitude 'I am protecting my fami ly.'" Source: Yonhap News Agency