South Korea is currently facing an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 35 degrees Celsius in many parts of the country. The Korea Meteorological Administration has predicted that the highest daily temperature in most areas will range between 29 and 35 degrees, with the apparent temperature expected to exceed 35 degrees across almost the entire nation. The apparent temperature, also known as the feels like temperature, measures the temperature that the body actually feels.
As of 8 a.m., the southern regions of South Korea were already experiencing temperatures close to 30 degrees. Cities such as Busan recorded 29.1 degrees, Ulsan registered 28.7 degrees, and Daegu saw temperatures of 28.4 degrees. In Seoul and nearby Incheon, temperatures reached 26.8 degrees and 26.6 degrees respectively. Urban areas, including Seoul, and coastal regions even had a tropical night, with temperatures remaining at 25 degrees or above throughout the night.
The Korea Meteorological Administration has issued warnings that the heat wave is expected to continue for some time, with the highest daily temperature potentially rising by up to 2 degrees on Tuesday and Wednesday. Unfortunately, the scorching temperatures have already taken a toll, with at least 12 heat-related deaths reported over the weekend. Among the victims were four people in their 70s to 90s who tragically passed away while working on farms under the extreme heat in North Gyeongsang province.
In addition to the heat, South Korea is also bracing for sudden rain showers. The weather agency has forecasted rainfall of up to 80 mm across most parts of the country, including the greater Seoul area and Jeju Island. Central regions may experience even heavier rain, with intensities of up to 60 mm per hour.
The public is advised to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the oppressive heat, such as staying hydrated, wearing light and loose-fitting clothing, and avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and urging citizens to take care of their health during this challenging period.
The heatwave in South Korea serves as a stark reminder of the increasing impact of global warming and the importance of implementing measures to mitigate its effects. As countries around the world continue to grapple with extreme weather events, it becomes imperative for governments and individuals alike to prioritize climate action and work towards a sustainable future.
