Seoul and the surrounding capital region are under a severe heat-wave warning as daytime temperatures are forecast to reach 38°C to 39°C [1, 2].
This extreme weather puts millions of residents at risk of heat-related illness during a period of sustained high temperatures that offer little overnight relief. The persistence of this heat strain tests the city's public health infrastructure and energy grid.
South Korean weather authorities have expanded the "severe warning" (폭염중대경보) to cover a larger portion of the metropolitan area [2]. The city has now endured two consecutive weeks of tropical nights [1], a condition where nighttime temperatures remain high enough to prevent cooling.
Meteorologists attribute the current conditions to a persistent influx of hot air from western regions and the northward movement of Typhoon Dolphin [2]. This combination has intensified the heat across the peninsula, affecting not only the capital but also cities such as Gwangju, Busan, Ansan, Jeonju, and Gangneung [2].
In Seoul, the actual temperature was recorded at 29.1°C at the time of reporting, with a felt temperature of approximately 31°C [1]. However, the daytime peak is expected to be far more severe. Forecasts indicate Seoul will hit 38°C [1], while Ansan is expected to reach 39°C [1]. On the east coast, Gangneung recorded a temperature of 31°C [1].
"Hot air continues to flow in from the west, and the heat wave is intensifying," a YonhapnewsTV anchor said [2].
Weather caster Cho Min-ju provided further warning regarding the week ahead. "Throughout this week, the west will experience extreme heat around 38 degrees," Cho said [2].
Local authorities have urged residents to limit outdoor activities during peak sun hours, and to maintain hydration to mitigate the risks associated with the expanded warning zone [2].
“Seoul and the surrounding capital region are under a severe heat-wave warning.”
The convergence of a northward-moving typhoon and a steady stream of western hot air creates a 'heat dome' effect. When tropical nights persist for two weeks, the human body cannot recover from daytime heat stress, significantly increasing the risk of heatstroke and cardiovascular failure among elderly and vulnerable populations.
