Yangsan city in South Korea's South Gyeongsang Province recorded a record-breaking daytime high of 42.5 °C on Sunday [1].
The extreme temperature marks a new all-time record for the city and signals the intensification of a persistent heat wave affecting the region. This surge in heat threatens public health and infrastructure as the weather system shifts toward the western part of the country.
Other cities in the region also reported dangerous temperatures. Kimhae reached 40.7 °C [1], while Gyeongju recorded a high of 40.3 °C [1]. Local officials and meteorologists said the spike was due to a persistent heat wave that was further intensified by a shift in wind direction [2].
As the heat wave moves, forecasts indicate that western regions will face extreme conditions starting Monday. Seoul is expected to see midday temperatures reach 37 °C [2].
Citizens have begun seeking refuge in subterranean locations to escape the surface heat. A reporter from YTN said Gwangmyeong Cave has become crowded with citizens looking to avoid the sweltering weather [2].
Local reports said the shift in wind patterns is driving these record-high temperatures across the region [2]. Residents in the Seoul metropolitan area are advised to prepare for the arrival of the heat wave as it moves from the southeast toward the west.
“Yangsan recorded a daytime high of 42.5 °C, a new all-time record”
The record-breaking temperature in Yangsan indicates an intensifying pattern of extreme heat events in South Korea. The movement of this heat wave toward the densely populated Seoul metropolitan area increases the risk of heat-related illnesses and puts significant pressure on the national energy grid due to increased cooling demands.
