South Korea records highest temperature ever amid heatwave

South Korea is grappling with an unprecedented heatwave, as the nation recorded its highest temperature in over a century on Sunday. The city of Yangsan, in the southeastern part of the country, registered a scorching 42.5 degrees Celsius, according to the Korea Meteorological Administration.

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It is too hot to be outside and do anything.

This marks the fifth consecutive day that Yangsan has experienced temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. The extreme heat has prompted authorities to issue the highest level of heat warning, a category introduced this year to better manage rising temperatures. This alert is issued when heatwave temperatures are expected to reach 39 degrees Celsius or higher. Residents are urged to cease all outdoor activities immediately, with indoor areas lacking air conditioning deemed dangerous.

The data reveals a significant increase in heatwave days, with the annual average more than doubling to 19 over the past five years, compared to an average of eight days in the 1970s. This trend aligns with scientific warnings that extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and intense due to human-caused climate change. The current heatwave is further amplified by the return of El Niño, a natural climate phenomenon that warms Pacific Ocean surface temperatures.

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I can not think of anything else to do than to stay in places with air conditioning like at home, in shopping malls and cafes.

Across the country, citizens are seeking refuge from the intense heat. Ju Dong-yeol, a 27-year-old office worker in Seoul, described the oppressive conditions, stating, "It is too hot to be outside and do anything." He added that his only recourse is to stay in air-conditioned spaces like home, shopping malls, and cafes.

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immediately cease all outdoor activities

Meanwhile, Europe has also endured a very hot summer, with prolonged heatwaves pushing temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius in several southern regions. This global pattern underscores the widespread impact of escalating climate challenges.

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indoor areas without air conditioning are dangerous