Most of the Country Under Heatwave Warnings, Hottest So Far This Year

Daegu and Gyeongsan Rise to 37 Degrees
Humidity Adds to Perceived Temperature Increase of 1-2 Degrees

Special Weather Advisory Status (Provided by the Korea Meteorological Administration)

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunju Lee] With heatwave warnings issued for most regions nationwide, the 18th is expected to be the hottest day of the year so far.

The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) has issued heatwave warnings and advisories across the country, except for the Jeju mountain area and the five western islands (Baengnyeongdo). Most regions nationwide recorded temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius in the morning. As of 8 a.m., Seoul recorded 25.4°C, Incheon 24.6°C, Daejeon 26.6°C, Gwangju 25.6°C, Daegu 27.4°C, Busan 29.5°C, and Gangneung 29.2°C.

As the center of the hot and humid North Pacific high-pressure system moves in, the daytime maximum temperature is expected to be the highest in recent times. The KMA forecasts daytime highs of 34°C in Seoul, 35°C in Daejeon and Jeonju, with nationwide temperatures exceeding 33°C. In particular, inland areas of Gyeongsang such as Gyeongju are expected to reach 37°C, and Daegu and Gyeongsan may rise to 38°C. The combination of high temperatures and humidity will make the perceived temperature 1 to 2 degrees higher.

On the 18th, when the whole country was mostly clear and a heatwave advisory was in effect, a sparrow was quenching its thirst at a drinking fountain in Hyochang Park, Yongsan-gu, Seoul. Photo by Hyunmin Kim kimhyun81@

According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, as of the 15th, there have been 617 cases of heat-related illnesses (0 deaths). Through its heatwave impact forecast, the KMA urged, "Outdoor activities should be stopped from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. unless unavoidable, and sufficient rest should be given during work." Due to the high humidity preventing temperatures from dropping significantly after the daytime heat, many areas are expected to experience tropical nights.

The heat will continue for the time being. Tomorrow's expected daytime high is between 31°C and 38°C, with morning lows between 21°C and 28°C. The day after tomorrow is also expected to see daytime highs soaring up to 38°C.