South Korea swelters as heatwave intensifies, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius

South Korea is grappling with an intense and prolonged heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius in parts of the southern Gyeongnam province for two consecutive days. This extreme heat, unprecedented in modern meteorological records for July, has prompted severe heat warnings in major cities like Busan, Changwon, and Gimhae.

The persistent heat is driven by a dual high-pressure system, with the Tibetan Plateau anticyclone at high altitudes and the North Pacific anticyclone at lower altitudes. This atmospheric setup allows for clear skies, intense sunlight, and high humidity, creating a stifling environment. The heat accumulated during the day is not dissipating at night, leading to tropical nights and exacerbating the overall heat conditions. Forecasters anticipate no significant change in the weather pattern, suggesting the heatwave will continue into August, with temperatures likely to remain stable or even increase.

The Gyeongnam region is experiencing the most extreme conditions, with Yangsan recording a high of 40.3 degrees Celsius for two days in a row. Other areas like Geumjeong in Busan (39.9 C), Changwon (39.3 C), and Gimhae (39 C) have also seen temperatures nearing 40 degrees. This phenomenon is partly due to a high-pressure system located west of the Korean peninsula, causing warm, southerly winds to flow over the Sobaek Mountains. The resulting 'foehn effect' heats the air as it descends on the southeastern side, and the basin-like topography of these regions traps the heat, making it difficult to dissipate.

Looking ahead, the forecast indicates a shift in the high-pressure system's center eastward, which is expected to bring warmer temperatures to western regions, including the Seoul metropolitan area, starting next week. Seoul could see daytime highs between 35 and 37 degrees Celsius. If temperatures exceed 39 degrees Celsius (with a perceived temperature of 38 degrees), a severe heat warning, a designation introduced this year, could be issued for the Seoul area and other western regions. Such warnings have already been issued in parts of Gyeongbuk, Daegu, Busan, and Jeonnam.

Adding a layer of uncertainty, Typhoon Dolphin, which formed east of Guam, is moving westward towards the Korean peninsula. While its potential impact on the country's weather systems is being monitored, its precise influence remains unclear. The Korea Meteorological Administration has stated that more detailed information will be provided as the short-term forecast period approaches.