Over 35 Degrees Nationwide... Government Raises Heat Wave Alert to 'Severe' Level

CDSCH Activates Level 1 Response for Enhanced Management and Supervision
Elderly and Other Vulnerable Groups Designated as Primary Protection Targets

On the afternoon of July 25, the Ministry of the Interior and Safety raised the heat wave crisis alert level to "Severe" as heat wave warnings were issued for most regions nationwide. The Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters (CDSCH) also activated Level 1 response to oversee and manage the situation.

The "Severe" level of the heat wave crisis alert is issued when it is expected that more than 40% of the country will experience a daily maximum perceived temperature of 35 degrees Celsius or higher for at least three consecutive days. As of 10 a.m. on this day, heat wave warnings had been issued for 180 out of 183 designated areas nationwide, accounting for 98% of the total.

A resident is fanning themselves in an alley of the Yeongdeungpo jjokbangchon in Seoul amid a record-breaking heatwave. Photo by Yonhap News

According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency's heat-related illness surveillance system, as of the previous day, there have been 1,979 cases of heat-related illness, including 10 estimated deaths. In response, the CDSCH has called on relevant ministries and local governments to make an all-out, government-wide effort to minimize damage caused by the heat wave.

Vulnerable groups such as the elderly, farmers, and residents of single-room housing are designated for strengthened protection measures. The authorities are also planning to reinforce supervision to ensure that heat illness prevention guidelines are observed at outdoor workplaces such as construction sites and at events with large crowds. In addition, the government will actively operate heat shelters and heat reduction facilities, and has requested increased attention to fire prevention and power supply management due to the higher use of air conditioning.

Yoon Hojoong, head of the CDSCH and Minister of the Interior and Safety, urged, "During the hottest hours of the day, please refrain from outdoor activities as much as possible and prioritize your health by following safety guidelines, such as staying hydrated."