South Korea's south enters rainy season amid heat in Seoul

The annual rainy season has commenced in South Korea's southern regions as of July 1, bringing significant rainfall to the area. However, the capital, Seoul, and other central parts of the country are currently outside the influence of the seasonal rain front, experiencing continued hot and humid weather.

Forecasters at the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) predict that the southern regions could see downpours of up to 30 millimeters per hour, with the possibility of heavy rain advisories being issued. Meanwhile, Seoul and central Korea are expected to have mostly cloudy skies, occasional afternoon showers, and muggy conditions, with daytime highs reaching approximately 33 degrees Celsius.

The KMA has stated that it is too early to confirm when the rainy season will officially begin in central Korea. The movement of the rain front remains uncertain, and its track will determine if it extends northward to affect the capital region. This year's monsoon onset has been later than the average, attributed to cold, dry air from the north delaying the formation of the seasonal rain front.

Historically, based on the 1991-2020 average, the monsoon typically starts around June 19 on Jeju Island, June 23 in the southern region, and June 25 in the central region. The delayed start this year highlights the variability in weather patterns.