Why Is South Korea Facing a Severe Heat Wave?
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Synopsis
As South Korea swelters under extreme temperatures, the Korea Meteorological Administration has declared nationwide heat wave alerts. With temperatures exceeding 37 degrees Celsius in some areas, residents are urged to stay hydrated and limit sun exposure. Learn more about the ongoing heat crisis affecting daily life and health across the nation.
Key Takeaways
- Nationwide heat wave alerts have been issued.
- Maximum temperatures could exceed 38 degrees Celsius.
- Residents are urged to take health precautions.
- Heat wave warnings and advisories differ in criteria.
- Extreme weather affects daily life and health.
Seoul, July 26 (NationPress) The relentless heat continues to dominate most areas of South Korea on Saturday, prompting the issuance of heat wave alerts nationwide.
By 1 PM, the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) had declared heat wave warnings for major cities including Seoul, Incheon, Daejeon, Gwangju, Daegu, and Busan, as well as the provinces of Gyeonggi and Chungcheong.
Additionally, the KMA has issued heat wave advisories for various regions, including parts of eastern Gangwon Province, the majority of the southern resort island of Jeju, and the easternmost islands of Ulleung and Dokdo.
A heat wave warning is activated when the maximum apparent temperature is forecast to exceed 35 degrees Celsius for two consecutive days or if the heat poses a significant risk of damage. Conversely, a heat wave advisory is issued when the highest sensible temperature is projected to remain at or above 33 degrees Celsius for two or more days.
As of 1 PM, the apparent temperature in Seoul had already crossed the 35 degrees Celsius threshold, with temperatures soaring above 37 degrees Celsius in the western city of Paju.
The KMA forecasts that today's maximum temperatures will vary between 32 degrees Celsius and 38 degrees Celsius, significantly exceeding the seasonal average of 27.5 degrees Celsius to 32.1 degrees Celsius. Residents are advised to prioritize their health and limit outdoor activities.
This heat wave is anticipated to persist into Sunday, with forecasts predicting daily highs between 32 degrees Celsius and 37 degrees Celsius, as reported by the weather agency, Yonhap.
On July 24, a heat wave warning was issued for all of Seoul, reinstating the highest-level heat notice in the capital for the first time in 11 days.
A previous heat wave warning was in effect over Seoul from July 7 to 13, which was later downgraded to an advisory, indicating that apparent temperatures were expected to stay above 33 degrees Celsius for at least two days.
Point of View
I advocate for public awareness regarding the ongoing heat crisis. The government's timely warnings are crucial in safeguarding public health. We urge citizens to heed these advisories and take necessary precautions during this extreme weather event.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperatures are expected during the heat wave?
Temperatures are projected to range from 32 degrees Celsius to 38 degrees Celsius.
What should residents do to stay safe during the heat wave?
Residents are advised to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities, and check on vulnerable individuals.
When was the last heat wave warning issued in Seoul?
The last heat wave warning was issued for all of Seoul on July 24, marking the first time in 11 days.
What is the difference between a heat wave warning and advisory?
A heat wave warning is issued when temperatures are expected to exceed 35 degrees Celsius for two days, while an advisory is for temperatures above 33 degrees Celsius.
Which areas in South Korea are currently under heat wave alerts?
Heat wave alerts have been issued for major cities including Seoul, Incheon, Daejeon, Gwangju, Daegu, and Busan.
