Climate ministry inspects southern dams

The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment will inspect drought-response operations at Miryang and Unmun dams as concerns grow over reliable water supplies.

First Vice Minister Geum Han-seung is to visit the dams on Aug. 5 to assess operating conditions and discuss further water-supply options.

Miryang Dam entered the alert drought stage on Aug. 2. It had a 33 percent storage rate and was at 52 percent of the average level as of that date.

Rainfall in the dam's catchment totaled 447 mm this year as of Aug. 2, or 52 percent of the average; since June 21, it was 50 mm, just 12 percent.

Miryang Dam serves Miryang, Yangsan and Changnyeong.

Unmun Dam has been managed at the severe drought stage since July 15 and is using alternative withdrawals from the Nakdong and Geumho rivers to provide residential and industrial water. If drought persists, the government plans to use the Geumho River emergency supply facility to provide up to 120,000 tonnes a day of residential and industrial water.

“Providing a stable water supply to residents even amid drought is the top priority,” Geum said. “As there are concerns that the drought in southern regions could be prolonged, we will make every effort through preemptive action to ensure water is supplied without disruption.”