Snow leads to numerous car accidents in Gangwon over weekend

Numerous car accidents occurred over the weekend in Gangwon after up to 60 centimeters (24 inches) of snow fell in the mountainous region.

A car is covered in thick snow in Pyeongchang, Gangwon on Sunday. [YONHAP]

Numerous car accidents occurred over the weekend in Gangwon after up to 60 centimeters (24 inches) of snow fell in the mountainous region.

The 37-year-old driver and three passengers of a car were hospitalized after their vehicle skidded on snow at 9:08 a.m. on Sunday.

At 12:12 a.m. on Monday, a truck fell into a ridge between rice paddies in Cheolwon County. The 59-year-old driver sustained facial injuries and had to receive medical treatment.

A total of 47 incidents related to the bad weather were reported to the Gangwon Fire Headquarters from Saturday to Monday morning. Of the 70 people involved, 25 were injured.

Several roads in the region were closed after numerous incidents took place.

Areas of Misiryeong saw 60.7 centimeters of snow, Sokcho 40.6 centimeters, Goseong 22.9 centimeters and Yangyang 17.7 centimeters.

Another centimeter of snow is expected for Gangwon on Monday.

"The weather alert for heavy snow is lifted, but icy roads are expected as a cold wave watch is issued over inland and mountain regions," said a spokesperson for the Korea Meteorological Administration.

"Pedestrians and drivers should be cautious."

BY SOHN DONG-JOO, YONHAP [sohn.dongjoo@joongang.co.kr]