Heat and hail damage thousands of hectares of South Korean crops

Four separate weather events affected South Korean agriculture during August and the beginning of September, according to MAFRA, which plans to complete damage assessments and distribute recovery support before Chuseok.

Heat recorded from August 3 onward affected around 3,660 hectares of crops. Heavy rain between August 28 and September 1 flooded another 132 hectares, while strong winds damaged around 13 hectares of greenhouses in Buyeo and Nonsan. Hail on August 31 hit approximately 129 hectares of orchards in Andong, Yecheon and Uiseong.

Detailed assessments are due to finish by September 11. Support can cover replanting, crop protection, replacement of livestock and damaged facilities, while farms with severe losses may also qualify for financial assistance and delayed repayment of agricultural policy loans.

Insured growers are being placed on a faster track. MAFRA said damage assessments should begin within three days of a claim, and affected greenhouse growers can request an advance payment equal to 50% of the estimated insurance payout.

source and photo: mafra.go.kr