Torrential rains in South Korea have killed at least 18 people and left nine missing, with over 14,000 residents forced to evacuate due to floods, landslides, and collapsed homes.

The downpours, which began on July 16, brought record rainfall to central and southern regions.

The military has deployed 2,500 troops to assist with recovery.

Experts say the unusually late monsoon caught many areas unprepared, highlighting the growing impact of climate change, Al-Jazeera has reported.

As the rains subside, the country now faces an incoming heatwave, with temperatures forecast to exceed seasonal averages.

Written by B.C. Begley