South Korea swelters as temperatures exceed 40C, heat illnesses surge

South Korea is grappling with an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring past 40 degrees Celsius in multiple locations, including the capital, Seoul, on August 7, a day traditionally marking the start of autumn.

Record-breaking temperatures were reported across the country. Hanam in Gyeonggi Province registered a high of 40.8 degrees Celsius, while Seoul (Nowon) reached 40.2 degrees. Other areas like Gwangyang in South Jeolla Province and Yongin in Gyeonggi Province also exceeded 40 degrees. The extreme heat prompted "heatwave severe warnings" in 51 areas, mostly in the Seoul metropolitan region, Gangwon, North Jeolla, South Jeolla, and North Gyeongsang provinces, indicating a high risk of heat-related casualties.

The prolonged heat has also led to a significant increase in heat-related illnesses. Data from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency shows that on August 6, nearly 70% of the 185 heatstroke patients nationwide were reported in the Seoul metropolitan area (Gyeonggi, Seoul, Incheon). This concentration in the capital region has been a consistent trend for the past four days.

Looking ahead, a shift in atmospheric pressure systems is expected to bring a slight reprieve from the most extreme temperatures over the weekend. However, the Korea Meteorological Administration forecasts that temperatures will remain above 35 degrees Celsius in many areas. Heavy rain is also anticipated along the eastern coast, particularly in Gangwon Province, with warnings issued for potential flash floods and safety hazards.