Severe heat and high humidity pushed temperatures above 37°C across North Gyeongsang Province and surrounding cities on Monday [1].

This extreme weather spike threatens public health and safety in the region, though meteorologists expect a shift toward heavy rainfall starting Tuesday.

In Daegu, the temperature in Dong-gu Sinam-dong rose to 37.6°C [1]. Other cities, including Gyeongsan, Yeongdeok, and Pohang, recorded temperatures of 37.5°C [1]. In Gyeongju, the temperature reached 36.8°C [1], while another measurement in Pohang showed 36.7°C [1]. Gumi saw temperatures hit 35.6°C [1].

The heat index across North Gyeongsang Province exceeded 35°C [1]. For comparison, Seoul recorded a temperature of 32.7°C [1] with a felt temperature, or heat index, of 33.2°C [1].

Kim Min-kyung, a reporter for YTN, said the heat wave is caused by the North Pacific high pressure and Tibetan high pressure simultaneously affecting the country [1]. This dual pressure system has trapped hot air over the Korean Peninsula, creating a volatile environment for residents.

Relief is expected to arrive shortly. An YTN anchor said that from tomorrow, heavy rain, known as jang-mat-bi, will begin, which should ease the heat [1]. The forecast indicates that these rains may be concentrated during the overnight hours.

Local residents in Daegu, Gyeongsan, Pohang, Gyeongju, and Gumi are advised to monitor weather alerts as the region transitions from extreme heat to heavy precipitation [1, 2].

“Daegu Dong-gu Sinam-dong's temperature rose to 37.6°C.”

The rapid transition from extreme heat to heavy monsoon rains, known as jang-mat-bi, creates a volatile weather cycle that can strain urban infrastructure and public health. The simultaneous influence of the North Pacific and Tibetan high-pressure systems demonstrates how overlapping atmospheric conditions can intensify regional heat waves in East Asia.