South Korea Faces Scattered Showers, Thunderstorms; Strong Waves Expected on Coasts

South Korea is bracing for a day of mixed weather, with scattered showers and thunderstorms expected in several inland regions on Thursday. The Korea Meteorological Administration forecasts partly cloudy skies nationwide, but heavy rain is anticipated along the eastern coast, particularly in Gangwon Province and the Gyeongsang coastal areas. Inland areas of Chungcheong and southern regions will also experience showers, potentially accompanied by thunder, lightning, and strong gusts of wind.

The precipitation is expected to be most significant in areas like Gangwon's eastern coast and Ullengdo/Dokdo, with rainfall amounts varying. Showers in inland Chungcheong and southern regions are predicted to be less intense but could still cause reduced visibility and slippery roads, prompting a caution for drivers.

Beyond the rain, coastal areas, including the southern coasts of Jeonnam and Gyeongnam provinces, as well as the eastern coast, are warned of strong waves. These powerful swells could reach the sandy beaches and crash over rocky shores and breakwaters, posing a risk of accidents. Residents and visitors are urged to exercise extreme caution in these areas.

Temperatures will remain relatively consistent with the seasonal average, with morning lows between 19 and 24 degrees Celsius and daytime highs ranging from 26 to 34 degrees Celsius. However, the meteorological agency notes a gradual increase in temperatures, raising the possibility of expanded heatwave advisories in the coming days. Air quality is expected to be good across the country due to clean northeasterly airflow.