As heat wave warnings are in effect for most regions nationwide, the Ministry of the Interior and Safety raised the heat wave alert level to 'severe' and announced that the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters (CDSCHQ) would activate Phase 1 at 2 p.m. on the 25th.
The heat wave alert levels are categorized as interest → caution → alert → severe, with 'severe' being the highest level. This level is activated when it is expected that the maximum perceived temperature will exceed 35 degrees Celsius in 40% of the country for more than three days.
As of 10 a.m. that day, heat wave warnings had been issued for 180 out of 183 warning zones (98%) nationwide. According to the heat-related illness monitoring system of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, the estimated number of heat-related illnesses due to the heat wave, including 10 estimated deaths as of the previous day, is 1,979.
The CDSCHQ ordered related ministries and local governments to respond with full force to minimize damage caused by the heat wave. Minister Yoon Ho-jung said, "During the hottest hours of sunlight, please minimize outdoor activities and ensure adequate fluid intake, following the guidelines to prioritize your health."