As the monsoon season begins in Seoul and the central region of South Korea, forecasts indicate that a phenomenon known as a "heat dome" may occur after the rainy season ends, with both the North Pacific High and the Tibetan High covering the Korean Peninsula simultaneously.
Meteorologists predict that temperatures in July and August this year are likely to be higher than average. The late onset of the monsoon suggests that heavy rainfall may occur over a short period, followed immediately by a heat wave.
Typically, the monsoon in the central region, including Seoul, ends around late July, but the exact timing may vary depending on the expansion of the North Pacific High and the movement of the stationary front.
The concern lies in the period following the monsoon.
Experts are particularly focused on the potential for a "heat dome". This phenomenon occurs when a strong high-pressure system covers a large area like a dome, trapping hot air close to the ground. With poor atmospheric circulation, heat cannot escape, leading to elevated daytime temperatures and prolonged warm nights, known as tropical nights.
In South Korea, the simultaneous expansion of the North Pacific High and the Tibetan High can intensify this effect. When both high-pressure systems envelop the peninsula, clear weather prevails, but strong sunlight continuously heats the surface, preventing hot air from dissipating and significantly increasing the perceived temperature.
As a result, the number of heat wave days and tropical nights this summer is expected to rise compared to the average. Given the delayed monsoon, a sudden surge of heat could lead to heat wave advisories being issued immediately after the rainy season.
Currently, the average high temperature in Seoul for July is around 29 degrees Celsius, but forecasts indicate that some days may see temperatures exceeding 33 degrees. With high humidity, the perceived temperature could be significantly higher than the actual temperature.
Experts emphasize that rather than feeling relieved when the monsoon ends, residents should prepare for the impending heat wave and tropical nights. They particularly advise vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, and outdoor workers, to limit prolonged outdoor activities during the day and to stay hydrated to prevent heat-related illnesses.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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