Heavy rain to hit South Korea, with up to 200 mm forecast in central regions

South Korea is set for a wet end to August, with rain spreading across most of the country and some central areas facing up to 200 millimeters through Sept. 1.

The heaviest rain is expected in the central region and Honam, where downpours could exceed 50 millimeters per hour. South Chungcheong is forecast to receive 80 to 150 millimeters, with some locations possibly getting more than 200 millimeters. North Chungcheong could see 50 to 100 millimeters, with totals above 150 millimeters in heavier-hit areas.

Seoul and other parts of the capital region, along with Gangwon Province, are expected to receive 30 to 80 millimeters. Some locations could record more than 120 millimeters. Rain is forecast in the central region through the morning of Sept. 1, continuing in eastern Gyeonggi Province until 3 p.m. and in Gangwon until 6 p.m. Southern regions and Jeju are expected to see 5 to 40 millimeters of showers during the evening.

The Korea Meteorological Administration said the weather pattern began as the North Pacific high-pressure system weakened and moved south near the end of August. Cold, dry air from the upper atmosphere then moved south and collided with hot, humid air that remained over the country, forming a stationary front. The front is expected to gradually move north.

Morning temperatures should remain above average for the time being, while daytime temperatures will be near or slightly above normal. Forecast temperatures for Sept. 1 range from 20 to 26 degrees Celsius in the morning and 25 to 33 degrees during the day.