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SEOUL – The heaviest November snowstorm to hit South Korea’s capital in more than half a century blanketed the capital on Wednesday, grounding hundreds of airline flights and disrupting commutes.

South Korea’s weather agency said 20 centimeters of snow fell in northern parts of Seoul and nearby areas. The agency said it was the heaviest snowstorm Seoul has experienced in 52 years. A storm on November 28, 1972 dumped 12 centimeters of snow on the capital.

One person was killed and four others injured in a five-vehicle crash in the eastern city of Hongcheon, according to South Korea’s Yonhap news agency.

The storm blanketed much of the country, dumping about 10 to 23 centimeters (3.9 to 9 in) of snow in the central, eastern and southwestern regions of the country.

At least 220 flights were canceled or delayed at airports across the country, while authorities ordered around 90 ferries to remain in port. They also closed hundreds of hiking trails.

Icy roads slowed commutes in Seoul as emergency responders across the country responded to downed trees, signs and other safety hazards.

The weather bureau said snow will continue in most parts of the country until Thursday afternoon.

President Yoon Suk Yeol has ordered the Ministries of Safety and Transport to mobilize all available relevant personnel and equipment to prevent traffic accidents and other snow-related incidents. Yoon also asked officials to quickly convey weather and traffic information to the public to ensure that snow-related damage and inconveniences are avoided, the presidential office said.