South Korea faces 'rainy Friday' with heavy downpours expected nationwide
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- South Korea is expected to experience widespread rain until Monday morning, with heavy downpours, strong winds, and thunderstorms predicted for southern regions and Jeju Island.
- Expected rainfall varies significantly by region, ranging from 20-60mm in the Seoul metropolitan area to 30-250mm in the southern Gyeongsang province.
- The rain offers a potential respite from a prolonged drought in the Gyeongsang region, though residents are advised to exercise caution due to strong winds and lightning.
South Korea is bracing for a "rainy Friday" extending into Monday morning, with the Korea Meteorological Administration forecasting significant precipitation across the nation. Southern regions and Jeju Island are particularly expected to face intense rainfall, accompanied by strong gusts and thunderstorms.
The forecast indicates that while some areas in the central region might see a lull in rain by Friday afternoon, the southern coast and Jeju will continue to experience showers until Sunday evening. Rainfall amounts are projected to vary widely, with the Seoul metropolitan area anticipating 20-60mm, while the southern Gyeongsang province could receive between 30-250mm. The Honam region is expected to get 30-200mm, and Jeju Island 30-150mm.
Until the morning of the 17th, widespread heavy rain is expected across the country, with very strong and heavy rain accompanied by gusts and thunderstorms concentrated in the southern regions and Jeju Island.
This incoming rain is being closely watched for its potential to alleviate a severe drought that has plagued the Gyeongsang region. However, the meteorological agency has issued warnings for potential damage due to strong winds and lightning accompanying the downpours. Residents in southern areas and along the coast are advised to be vigilant, as wind speeds could reach 15-20 meters per second.
Temperatures are expected to remain similar to seasonal averages, with daytime highs ranging from 24-30 degrees Celsius. While rain may lower temperatures on Saturday, parts of the Seoul metropolitan area and the Chungcheong and Honam regions could experience peak perceived temperatures around 33 degrees Celsius on Sunday, indicating a return to hot and humid conditions in some areas.
In areas where rain falls, there is a concern for damage due to accompanying gusts and thunderstorms, so special caution is required.
Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.