Most of the country to experience 'tropical nights'; Pohang and Gyeongju to reach peak '39°C'

Much of South Korea is currently under the grip of a severe heatwave, with most regions experiencing tropical nights where overnight temperatures fail to drop below 25 degrees Celsius (77°F). This oppressive heat is expected to continue, with some areas seeing nighttime temperatures hover around 30 degrees Celsius (86°F), creating conditions of "super tropical nights."

The Korea Meteorological Administration has issued tropical night advisories for Seoul and its surrounding metropolitan area, as well as parts of Incheon and Gyeonggi Province. Similar advisories are in effect for several areas in Chungnam Province, including Gongju, Cheongyang, Yesan, and Seocheon, as well as parts of Jeonnam Province. These advisories are issued when minimum nighttime temperatures are expected to remain at or above 25 degrees Celsius from 6 p.m. to 9 a.m. the following day.

“

Many areas are experiencing tropical nights, and some areas will maintain temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius overnight, reaching super tropical night levels.

In addition to the tropical nights, heatwave warnings have been upgraded in some areas, including Gimje, Jeonju, and Namwon in North Jeolla Province, where daily peak temperatures are forecast to exceed 35 degrees Celsius (95°F) for two consecutive days. The southeastern regions of North Gyeongsang Province, specifically Pohang and Gyeongju, are bracing for daytime high temperatures around 39 degrees Celsius (102°F), with perceived temperatures potentially reaching 38 degrees Celsius (100.4°F).

Health officials are urging residents to take precautions against the extreme heat. They recommend using air conditioning and fans to maintain cool indoor environments and ensuring adequate hydration, especially before sleeping, to mitigate the effects of the prolonged high temperatures. The ongoing heatwave is impacting daily life across the country, with events like the Boryeong Mud Festival also affected by the sweltering conditions.

“

As nighttime heat continues in many areas, please prepare for the night heat by keeping indoor spaces cool using air conditioners and fans, and by drinking plenty of water before sleeping.