South Korean authorities issued the first severe heatwave warning for the capital region on Tuesday morning as extreme temperatures persisted [2].
The warning marks a critical escalation in public health risks as a westward-shifting heat wave prevents nighttime cooling. This prevents the urban environment from recovering from daytime peaks, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses for millions of residents.
Seoul has now experienced a tropical night for 13 consecutive days [1]. During the Tuesday morning commute, temperatures in the city had already reached 29 °C [1]. Forecasters expect daytime highs in Seoul to climb to 38 °C [1].
The extreme heat extends beyond the city center into the broader Gyeonggi area. Temperatures in Yeoju are forecast to reach 39 °C [1]. Other affected areas include Osan and Hanam, while the Yeongnam region, specifically Miryang and Daegu, is expected to see highs of 36 °C [1].
Officials said that the current weather pattern is driven by an extreme heat wave that has shifted westward, causing daytime heat to linger well into the night [1]. This atmospheric stagnation has prompted the meteorological agency to trigger the highest-level heatwave warning [2].
While much of the region remains dry, some relief may arrive in limited areas. Forecasters predict localized rain showers in southern Gyeonggi and southern Chungcheong, with precipitation levels ranging from five mm to 60 mm [1]. Other regions facing intense heat include Gwangju and Jeju [1].
“Seoul has now experienced a tropical night for 13 consecutive days”
The issuance of the first-ever 'severe heatwave warning' (중대경보) indicates that current temperature trends are exceeding standard seasonal expectations. The combination of a 13-day streak of tropical nights and projected highs near 40 °C suggests an urban heat island effect that may overwhelm existing public cooling infrastructure and increase strain on the power grid.
