Extreme heat, with temperatures soaring around 40 degrees Celsius, is shifting from the Yeongnam region to the capital area and central regions of South Korea.
According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, the recent extreme heat in the southern regions is spreading significantly to the western parts of the central region, including Seoul, Gyeonggi, and Chungcheong, driven by easterly winds.
The primary cause of this change in wind direction is Typhoon Dolphin, which is moving northward. The typhoon is rotating counterclockwise, pushing strong easterly winds into the Korean Peninsula. As this humid air crosses the Taebaek Mountains, it creates a phenomenon known as the Föhn effect, where the air becomes dry and hot.
The hot winds from the mountains are directly impacting the western regions, causing temperatures in the capital area to rise dramatically. In response to the rapidly worsening situation, the Meteorological Administration issued a 'Heat Wave Warning' for all of Seoul and key areas in Gyeonggi Province. This warning is the highest level of alert and is issued when the daily maximum perceived temperature is expected to exceed 38 degrees Celsius or the daily maximum temperature is forecasted to exceed 39 degrees Celsius, marking a first for the capital region.
In fact, the perceived temperatures in some areas of the capital region are nearing 40 degrees Celsius. The Meteorological Administration predicts that this extreme heat pattern will persist for at least 10 days, depending on the typhoon's path.
The ongoing record-breaking heat has sparked intense reactions from netizens. One user remarked, "The moment I step outside, it feels like entering a sauna, which I've never experienced in my decades of life."
Other users shared their experiences, saying, "I attempted to go for a night run for the first time in my life but gave up," and "I used to think 34 degrees was nothing, but now 39 degrees feels the same. It's disheartening to think it will only get hotter. In 30 years, will we be saying 37 degrees feels cool?" Another user questioned, "Is 34 degrees the new low?"
Meanwhile, the Meteorological Administration has urged the public to immediately cease strenuous outdoor activities and to stay hydrated, as the risk of heat-related illnesses is expected to peak in the coming days.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.