Seoul is expected to reach a midday high of 26°C on May 13, 2026, as the city experiences early summer warmth [1].
This rapid shift in temperature and the presence of dense morning fog create hazardous conditions for commuters and signal an abrupt transition into summer-like weather patterns for the region.
The YTN weather team said that the heat follows the passage of rain clouds, which left behind high humidity and strong sunshine [2]. In Seoul, the temperature at the time of the broadcast was 24.2°C [1], which was three degrees higher than the temperature at the same time on Tuesday [1]. This reading is approximately four degrees above the historical average for this date [1].
Weather officials warned of significant visibility issues during the morning commute. A YTN weather caster said that visibility in inland areas was limited to roughly 200 meters due to dense fog [1]. These conditions were not limited to the capital, as the forecast also highlighted weather patterns in Daegu, Daejeon, Gwangju, and the mountainous regions of Gangwon [1].
Beyond the temperature and fog, the region is facing atmospheric challenges. The forecast indicates strong ultraviolet radiation and dense ozone levels nationwide [1]. The combination of high heat and ozone can affect air quality and public health, particularly for those spending extended periods outdoors.
"The weather will be somewhat hot today, like early summer, after the rain clouds have passed," a YTN weather caster said [2].
“Seoul is expected to reach a midday high of 26°C on May 13, 2026.”
The convergence of post-rain humidity and strong solar radiation is accelerating the onset of summer temperatures in South Korea. When high humidity meets a sudden temperature spike, it often results in the dense inland fog and elevated ozone levels observed this week, increasing the risk of traffic accidents and respiratory irritation.
