Extreme heat is sweeping across the Korean peninsula, with feels-like temperatures reaching 40°C [1].
This prolonged heat wave threatens public health and infrastructure as the lack of rainfall prevents the region from cooling down. The intensity of the current weather pattern suggests a prolonged period of environmental stress for residents in densely populated urban centers.
Meteorologists report that the heat is affecting the entire peninsula, with particularly severe conditions in Seoul and the Yeongnam region [1, 2]. During the morning commute, feels-like temperatures were recorded at approximately 30°C [2].
The current weather pattern is driven by the simultaneous influence of the North Pacific high and the Tibetan high. These two high-pressure systems are covering the peninsula, which strengthens the flow of hot and humid air [3]. Because there are no signs of incoming rain, the heat remains trapped.
Nighttime temperatures are also failing to drop, leading to widespread "tropical nights." In various parts of the country, including Seoul, minimum nighttime temperatures have remained at or above 25°C [2].
"Nighttime heat is not cooling down, and tropical night phenomena continue in various places across the country, including Seoul," said caster Won I-da [2].
Anchor Jung Ji-woong described the situation as a "people-killing heat wave" and questioned when the trend would break [1]. He said that the consecutive heat waves and tropical nights are expected to continue into next month [1].
Weather officials from the Korea Meteorological Administration said that the heat will persist through August [3]. The combination of high humidity and extreme temperature creates a dangerous environment for those without adequate cooling systems.
“Feels-like temperatures reaching 40°C [1].”
The overlapping of the North Pacific and Tibetan high-pressure systems creates a 'heat dome' effect, trapping hot air over the peninsula. Without precipitation to break this cycle, the region faces a high risk of heat-related illnesses and increased energy demand for cooling, extending the crisis well into August.
