First 'Major Heatwave Warning' Issued in South Korea as Temperatures Near 40°C

For the first time since its introduction on July 1st, South Korea's highest alert, the "Major Heatwave Warning," was issued for the cities of Gyeongsan and Pohang on July 12th. Temperatures in Gyeongsan soared to a scorching 39.9 degrees Celsius, narrowly missing the 40-degree mark, while Pohang recorded 37.2 degrees Celsius.

The "Major Heatwave Warning" is activated when the highest perceived temperature remains above 35 degrees Celsius for two consecutive days, and is forecast to exceed 38 degrees Celsius or the highest daily temperature surpasses 39 degrees Celsius for at least one additional day. This designation represents the most severe level of heat alert in the country's system.

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This is the first time since the heatwave warning system was established in 2008 that this top-tier alert has been issued.

Lee Mi-seon, head of the Korea Meteorological Administration, stated during a briefing that this is the first time since the heatwave warning system was established in 2008 that this top-tier alert has been issued. She emphasized that the warning signifies a "significantly high risk of serious harm, such as heatstroke or death, even for healthy individuals." Health authorities have strongly advised the public to immediately suspend outdoor activities and adhere to heat-related health guidelines as the current heatwave is predicted to reach its peak on July 13th.

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significantly high risk of serious harm, such as heatstroke or death, even for healthy individuals.