South Korean city endures third day of 40C+ heatwave

South Korea is grappling with an intense heatwave, with the city of Yangsan in South Gyeongsang Province recording a scorching 40.7 degrees Celsius on July 31. This marks the third consecutive day the city has surpassed the 40-degree threshold, setting a new record for the location since meteorological observations began in 2008.

The extreme heat began on July 26, when Yangsan registered a record high of 39.3 degrees Celsius. Just three days later, on July 29, the temperature climbed to 40.3 degrees, a figure that was matched again on July 30. The consecutive days above 40 degrees are a rare phenomenon in South Korea.

According to meteorological data, this is only the third time since 1973 that any location in the country has experienced temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius for three or more consecutive days. This marks the second year in a row that areas have recorded temperatures above 40 degrees in July, highlighting a concerning trend in the country's climate.

The heatwave is expected to persist, with the Korea Meteorological Administration forecasting national temperatures to range between 32 and 38 degrees Celsius from July 31 to August 2. Regions including the Seoul metropolitan area and Chungcheong Province are anticipated to face severe heat.

The extreme weather is taking a toll on public health. As of July 29, a total of 1,638 people have been treated for heat-related illnesses, with 12 fatalities reported, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency.