Record Korean peninsula heatwave hits 42.5°C, highest in 122 years

The Korean peninsula is enduring a historic heatwave, with temperatures in South Korea hitting a 122-year high of 42.5°C (108.5°F) in Yangsan on Sunday. The extreme heat, initially concentrated in the southeast, has now spread to the Seoul metropolitan area and western regions, prompting authorities to escalate emergency responses.

South Korea's weather agency warned of further temperature increases this week. Since mid-May, the heatwave has caused 14 deaths and left 1,889 people with heat-related illnesses, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency. Prime Minister Han Seong-sook has ordered a full mobilization of resources to combat the heat and drought risks, as the government raised its heatwave response alert to the second-highest level.

Power consumption is expected to reach record highs in late August due to increased air conditioning use, leading authorities to activate emergency measures to manage supply and demand. Local governments are implementing relief efforts, expanding cooling shelters, and distributing water and sun umbrellas. Recreational activities have been disrupted, with baseball games canceled, while beaches and water parks are seeing large crowds.

North Korea is facing similar extreme conditions, with state media reporting temperatures approaching 40°C (104°F) and consecutive tropical nights in Pyongyang. Water parks and tourist areas are reportedly crowded as residents seek respite from the intense heat.