A heat wave with high humidity swept southern South Korea on July 7, pushing perceived temperatures to 35°C in Gwangju [1].
This spike in temperature creates a public health risk, as the combination of humidity and heat increases the likelihood of heat-related illnesses among citizens.
The weather shift occurred after the monsoon front temporarily retreated, leaving the region exposed to strong sunshine and high moisture levels [2, 3]. In Gwangju, the actual air temperature recorded at noon was 32°C [4], but relative humidity reached approximately 80% [4]. This humidity drove the heat index higher, leading some reports to cite a maximum perceived temperature of 35°C [1].
Local authorities declared a heat-illness emergency for the Gwangju region as the conditions worsened [4]. The UV index also reached a "high" level, further increasing the risk for those spending time outdoors [4].
YTN field reporter Oh Sun-yeol said from a downtown walking path in Gwangju that citizens were seen seeking shade to escape the intense sun [4]. The regional disparity in weather was stark, as different parts of the country faced opposing extremes.
An anchor for YTN said, "While the central region is suffering from continuous damage caused by extreme heavy rain, the southern region is experiencing a heat wave and tropical nights."
Other reports from the Seoul Shinmun indicated that the actual high temperature for the day reached 35°C [3]. This discrepancy between the actual air temperature and the perceived heat index highlights the impact of the "sauna-like" humidity affecting the southern provinces.
“The perceived temperature reached 35°C in Gwangju.”
The simultaneous occurrence of extreme flooding in central South Korea and intense heat waves in the south demonstrates the volatile nature of the region's summer monsoon season. When the monsoon front retreats unevenly, it creates localized pockets of extreme humidity and heat, placing a dual strain on the national emergency response system.
