Scattered light rain and high humidity affected the morning commute across central Korea on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 [1, 2].
These conditions created hazardous travel environments, reducing visibility and making roads slippery for commuters in major urban centers. The combination of residual moisture and rising temperatures increases the risk of heat-related illness and traffic delays during the peak morning hours.
Weather officials said that the rain clouds responsible for previous heavy rainfall have largely moved eastward over the East Sea [1, 2]. Despite this movement, weak showers continue to affect various regions, including North Jeolla and North Gyeongsang [1, 2].
Recent measurements show that the Seoul metropolitan area and Gangwon Province received around 100 mm of rainfall between yesterday and this morning [1]. Forecasts indicate that additional rain may fall this afternoon, ranging from five mm to a maximum of 40 mm [1].
Temperatures began rising early in the day. Seoul recorded 24°C, Cheongju was at 26.7°C, and Gangneung reached 30.1°C [1]. The heat is expected to intensify as the day progresses. Seoul is forecast to reach a high of 29°C, while Daejeon is expected to hit 30°C [1].
Coastal and eastern regions will experience more extreme heat. Gangneung is predicted to reach 34°C, and Pohang is forecast to hit 36°C later today [1].
During a broadcast, reporter Ko Han-seok asked if the rain clouds had mostly departed after heavy overnight rain [2]. A YTN reporter said, "Yes, most of the rain clouds have moved out" [2]. An anchor said that the sky over Seoul appeared merely cloudy [2].
“Scattered light rain and high humidity affected the morning commute across central Korea.”
The transition from heavy rainfall to a high-humidity heat wave creates a 'steamer' effect, where high dew points make the actual temperature feel more oppressive. This pattern suggests a volatile weather window where the region must pivot from flood mitigation to heat-stress management within a single 24-hour cycle.
