Seoul Heatwave Continues, Heat-Related Illnesses Rise to 158

Seoul is grappling with an intense and persistent heatwave, as five new cases of heat-related illnesses were reported on July 31, bringing the total number of affected individuals this season to 158. Tragically, two deaths have been attributed to the extreme heat since May 15. The city is currently under a heatwave warning for 19 districts in the southeastern, southwestern, and northeastern areas, with a heatwave advisory in effect for the remaining six districts in the northwest. Overnight, the entire city is experiencing tropical nights, with temperatures remaining high.

In response to the escalating conditions, the Seoul Metropolitan Government raised the heatwave crisis alert from "Advisory" to "Watch" on June 29 and maintained a Level 2 work order. A comprehensive support situation room, staffed by 10 people in eight teams, is operational. The district offices have mobilized 355 personnel across 95 teams for emergency duty. An additional 87 city and district employees are conducting on-site patrols, bringing the total response personnel to 452.

The city is actively providing protection to vulnerable populations, including homeless individuals, elderly people living alone, those with chronic illnesses, and outdoor workers. As of July 31, a total of 33,643 individuals have received assistance since the first heatwave warning on June 18, with cumulative support reaching 772,430 people. The city is also managing 9,849 heat-response facilities, such as cooling shelters, emergency shelters, and shaded areas.

Forecasting indicates no immediate relief, with daytime high temperatures expected to climb to 35 degrees Celsius on August 2, 36 degrees on August 3, and 37 degrees on August 4. The perceived temperature is predicted to reach 36 degrees during this period. The Seoul Metropolitan Government, in collaboration with district offices, will continue to monitor the situation through its situation room and manage the response to heat-related illnesses and the ongoing heatwave.