A record heat wave engulfing the nation is expected to continue into early next week.
The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) announced on August 4 that from August 8 to 11, morning temperatures across the country will range from 22 to 27 degrees Celsius, while daytime highs will reach between 31 and 37 degrees, significantly above average. Most regions are forecasted to experience a perceived temperature exceeding 33 degrees, with inland areas likely surpassing 35 degrees, leading to ongoing heat and tropical nights.
In a report released on August 3, the KMA warned that a heat wave advisory is in effect for most areas, urging caution due to the extreme heat. The newly established heat wave warning, introduced this year, is a higher alert level than the previous heat advisories. It is issued when the perceived temperature is expected to reach 38 degrees or when the maximum temperature is forecasted to exceed 39 degrees for at least one day.
This heat wave has already broken several records. According to the KMA's disaster meteorology observation equipment, the highest temperature recorded in Yangsan, Gyeongnam, reached 42.5 degrees on August 2, setting a new national record. Yangsan has seen temperatures above 40 degrees for five consecutive days from July 29 to August 2. On August 1, the national average temperature also rose to 30.1 degrees, surpassing the previous record of 30 degrees set on August 2, 2018.
Typhoon Dolphin, currently moving northward, is considered a significant factor in the ongoing heat wave. According to the KMA's typhoon report released at 4 p.m. on August 4, Dolphin was moving westward off the southeastern coast of Japan as of 3 p.m. The expected path of the typhoon is projected to approach the waters near Okinawa and the southern coast of the Korean Peninsula around August 8-9, but it is still uncertain whether it will directly impact the country. The uncertainty regarding its trajectory remains high.
However, the approach of the typhoon does not guarantee a relief from the heat. The counterclockwise circulation of Dolphin is bringing easterly winds to the Korean Peninsula, causing the air that crosses the mountains to become hot and dry, which is raising temperatures in the western regions. Previously, the foehn effect from northwesterly winds that heated the Yeongnam region has shifted to the capital area and western regions with the change in wind direction.
The KMA forecasts that from August 8 to 11, there will be increased cloud cover in Gangwon Yeongdong, Gyeongnam, and Jeju Island. However, during this period, daytime highs are still expected to reach up to 37 degrees, and heat and tropical nights will persist, making it difficult to view the increase in cloud cover as a turning point in the heat wave. Additionally, waves in the southern sea and around Jeju Island are expected to reach heights of 2 to 5 meters.
Currently, it is challenging to determine the specific timing for lifting the heat wave advisories or whether the heat will subside around the 23rd, which marks the end of the summer season. The KMA's official medium-term forecast does not show clear signals for the end of the heat wave, so it is advisable to continue monitoring the latest short- and medium-term forecasts.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.