The traditional end of summer heat, known as Chuseok, has passed, but the sweltering weather continues. On the morning of August 25, temperatures in Seoul exceeded 26 degrees Celsius, making for a muggy commute.
According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, the temperature in Seoul reached 26.5 degrees Celsius at 5 a.m. Incheon recorded 26.7 degrees, Gangneung 26.5 degrees, Daegu 26.5 degrees, Busan 27.6 degrees, and Jeju 26.9 degrees, with temperatures across the country remaining above 25 degrees.
The heat, which did not cool down overnight, is expected to persist throughout the day. With heat advisories in effect for most regions, the forecast predicts daytime highs between 31 and 36 degrees Celsius. Seoul is expected to reach 32 degrees, while Daejeon may hit 34 degrees, and Jeonju, Gwangju, Daegu, Busan, Ulsan, and Changwon could see temperatures rise to 35 degrees.
The maximum perceived temperature is also expected to rise to around 33 degrees in most areas. Some regions in the metropolitan area, eastern Gangwon, southern Chungcheong, and the southern provinces may experience perceived temperatures around 35 degrees.
Showers are forecasted for Seoul and parts of the metropolitan area. Areas in Seoul, Incheon, and some parts of Gyeonggi Province may receive between 5 and 40 millimeters of rain, with northeastern Gyeonggi expected to see up to 60 millimeters. However, the Korea Meteorological Administration predicts that even if temperatures drop temporarily during the rain, they will rise again after the rain stops due to high humidity, continuing the heat.
August 23 marked Chuseok, a period traditionally associated with the retreat of heat. However, this year, late summer heat continues even after this date.
There is little hope for a significant relief from the heat in the near future. According to the medium-term forecast from the Korea Meteorological Administration, morning temperatures nationwide are expected to range from 21 to 26 degrees, while daytime highs will be between 28 and 35 degrees, above average for this time of year. During this period, many areas are expected to experience maximum perceived temperatures around 33 degrees, with tropical nights occurring in some locations.
The Korea Meteorological Administration advises those in areas experiencing prolonged heat to limit outdoor activities and stay hydrated to maintain their health.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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