Nationwide Heavy Rain Forecast for August’s Final Day, Up to 200 mm in Chungcheong as Southern Heat Persists

South Korea is set for a sharp weather contrast on the last day of August: intense rain across much of the country, alongside oppressive heat in the south and on Jeju Island.

The Korea Meteorological Administration forecast downpours accompanied by gusty winds, thunder and lightning on August 31. The heaviest rain is expected in southern Gyeonggi, southern inland and mountainous Gangwon, the Chungcheong region and North Jeolla, where hourly rainfall could exceed 20 to 30 millimeters.

Rain had already triggered heavy-rain advisories in South Chungcheong and western Jeolla by 7 a.m. Strong showers continued in western Jeolla, including Nakwol Island in Yeonggwang, where 470.5 millimeters had fallen since the previous day. The island recorded 48.5 millimeters in the single hour from 6 to 7 a.m.

Forecast totals range from 30 to 80 millimeters in Seoul, Incheon, Gyeonggi and Gangwon, with up to 120 millimeters in heavier areas. Daejeon, Sejong and South Chungcheong could receive 80 to 150 millimeters, with some locations exceeding 200 millimeters. North Chungcheong could see up to 150 millimeters, while parts of Jeolla could receive more than 120 millimeters.

Rain is expected to ease overnight in the southern provinces and Jeju, but continue in central regions through the following morning. Temperatures are forecast to range from 24 C to 34 C, with heat advisories in parts of the south and Jeju. The heat index could reach about 33 C, and tropical nights are possible along the southern coast and on Jeju. Fine dust levels are expected to remain good nationwide.