Caution Advised on Icy Roads
On the 25th, as temperatures dropped below freezing and the weather turned cold, citizens wearing coats and hats were moving around Gwanghwamun Square in Jongno-gu, Seoul. Photo by Yonhap News
As temperatures plummeted overnight, Gwangju and the entire Jeonnam region were gripped by a severe cold wave. Snowfall also caused roads to freeze in many areas, leading to inconveniences for commuters.
According to the Gwangju Regional Meteorological Administration, as of 6 a.m. on the 26th, the lowest temperatures recorded were minus 16.1 degrees Celsius at Seongsamjae in Gurye, minus 13.9 degrees at Mudeungsan in Gwangju, minus 10.5 degrees at Baegunsan in Gwangyang, minus 8.4 degrees at Piagol in Gurye, minus 7.5 degrees in Suncheon, minus 6.5 degrees in Gwangyang, minus 6.2 degrees in Yeonggwang, and minus 5.8 degrees in Gwangju.
The accumulated snowfall from the previous day until the morning of the 26th was measured at 5.9 centimeters at Sangmu Base in Jangseong, 4.1 centimeters in Damyang, 3.5 centimeters in Gwangsan, Gwangju, 3.2 centimeters at Baeka in Hwasun, 2.6 centimeters at Dado in Naju, 2.3 centimeters at Okgwa in Gokseong, and 2 centimeters at the Jeonnam Provincial Government Office in Muan. The Meteorological Administration forecasted an additional 1 to 1.5 centimeters of snow in Gwangju, western Jeonnam, and the west coast by the morning of the 26th.
With cold air flowing in from the northwest, temperatures are 3 to 10 degrees Celsius lower than the seasonal average. Currently, cold wave advisories are in effect for seven cities and counties in Jeonnam: Suncheon, Gwangyang, Gokseong, Gurye, Hwasun, Goheung, and Boseong. The highest daytime temperatures are expected to remain between minus 1 degree and plus 2 degrees Celsius, with the cold persisting throughout the day.
Strong winds are further lowering the perceived temperature. Most areas in Jeonnam are experiencing gusts of around 70 kilometers per hour (20 meters per second).
Currently, heavy snow advisories remain in effect for five cities and counties: Jangseong, Muan, Hampyeong, Yeonggwang, and Shinan. While there have been no major damages, reports of slippery roads have been received from both Jangseong and Damyang.
An official from the Meteorological Administration stated, "The snow that fell overnight has frozen, creating icy patches on roads in many areas. Please drive slowly and pedestrians should also be cautious to prevent slipping accidents."
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