According to statistics from the Korea Meteorological Administration over the past three years (2022-2024), Daegu has experienced a clear trend of prolonged heat waves, with August temperatures exceeding 37°C and lingering heat in September with highs above 33°C. In particular, in September of last year, temperatures rose above 36°C, highlighting the growing need for measures to address late-summer heat waves.
Dalseong County in Daegu is actively implementing heat wave mitigation measures in response to these climate changes. Major initiatives include the installation of smart shades, the rental of "conscience parasols," and the operation of water spraying trucks.
Dalseong County is running a conscience parasol rental program that is free for all local residents. Currently, the parasols are available in front of the General Civil Affairs Office on the second floor of the county office, and there are plans to expand the program to nine township administrative welfare centers by 2026.
Borrowed parasols can be returned either to the place where they were rented or to any administrative welfare center. Returned parasols are disinfected daily before being reused. Dalseong County considers parasols to be a practical tool for coping with heat waves in everyday life, as they not only lower the perceived temperature but are also effective in preventing skin diseases and hair loss.
The operation of water spraying trucks to lower road temperatures is also being carried out. When a heat wave advisory is issued, four trucks are mobilized to spray water twice a day along 230 kilometers of major arterial roads. This is intended to reduce road surface radiant heat and the urban heat island effect.
In addition, the "Clean Road System," which automatically operates when the road surface temperature exceeds 46°C, is in use in some areas. It is currently installed on Myeongcheon-ro and Hwaam-ro in Hwawon-eup, as well as around Daesil Station in Dasa-eup, and it is scheduled to be installed on the Techno Commercial Road section in Yuga-eup in September.
The installation of smart shades to prevent heat stroke among pedestrians is also expanding. Dalseong County currently operates a total of 146 shades, including smart models, which is the highest number among all districts and counties in Daegu. The county is considering additional installations based on demand surveys in each township.
Choi Jaehoon, Governor of Dalseong County, stated, "Heat waves go beyond mere inconvenience and pose a direct threat to health, so we will continue to take meticulous measures to ensure that our residents can enjoy a healthy and safe summer."
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