우리나라의 호우 및 피해 특성에 따른 지역 분류

Abstract

This study quantitatively analyzed the regional characteristics of heavy precipitation and its associated damages in South Korea from May to October during the period 2016-2022. Additionally, spatial clustering based on the K-means method was performed using rainfall frequency, damage frequency, and topographic elevation. The analysis of cumulative rainfall and damage frequency showed that, in most regions, rainfall amounts associated with damage were comparable to or slightly higher than current heavy rain warning thresholds, generally within an operationally acceptable range. In the inland central regions (e.g., Chungcheongbuk-do, Chungcheongnam- do, and Gyeonggi-do), the proportion of damage relative to heavy rainfall occurrence was relatively high under intense rainfall conditions, whereas Jeju Island exhibited a high frequency of heavy rainfall but low damage occurrence. The clustering classified the country into four clusters, with consistent cluster configurations maintained under both the 3-hour and 12-hour cumulative rainfall criteria. Notably, the cluster encompassing the Seoul Metropolitan Area and southeastern coastal regions exhibited higher frequency of damage despite lower frequency of heavy rainfall, suggesting significant influences from socio-geographical factors. In contrast, the mountainous areas of Jeju, characterized by highest rainfall frequency and elevation, reported almost no damage, indicating that social exposure and physical vulnerability are critical determinants of damage rather than rainfall amount alone. These findings are expected to provide as foundational data for improving heavy rainfall warning systems and developing tailored response strategies.