This summer's heatwave has reached its peak, and next week is expected to be hot again.
According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, the highest daytime temperatures on Monday, 28th, are forecasted to reach 37 degrees Celsius in Seoul, 34 degrees in Incheon, 36 degrees in Chuncheon, 34 degrees in Gangneung, 35 degrees in Daejeon, 36 degrees in Jeonju, 35 degrees in Gwangju, 35 degrees in Daegu, 32 degrees in Busan, and 32 degrees in Jeju.
The Korea Meteorological Administration noted, "In the afternoon, the Seoul metropolitan area and Chungnam region will be partly cloudy, while Jeju Island is expected to be mostly cloudy," adding, "There may be localized showers in the southwestern Gyeonggi Province and Chungnam in the afternoon."
On this day, Seoul recorded its highest temperature of the summer at 38 degrees Celsius, the fourth-highest level for the end of July, with the highest record being 38.4 degrees on July 24, 1994. In Anseong, the temperature was 40.6 degrees around 4:46 p.m. Not only Anseong, but also Gapyung at 37.9 degrees and Pocheon at 36.7 degrees experienced extreme heat nearing 40 degrees in many areas of Gyeonggi Province.
The unusual extreme heat is analyzed to have occurred due to the North Pacific High and Tibetan High enveloping the Korean Peninsula like a blanket, combined with a heat dome phenomenon under clear weather. Additionally, typhoons and tropical low-pressure systems are continuously forming over the southern seas, further raising temperatures with hot southeasterly winds.
The heatwave is expected to continue into mid-next week. It is predicted to last until mid-this week. Due to the ongoing heat, the possibility of heat-related illnesses is high, so it is advised to refrain from outdoor activities and outings, and to manage food thoroughly to prevent food poisoning.
Meanwhile, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, the cumulative number of heat-related illnesses this year has already reached 2,183, more than double compared to the same period last year. The agency recommends, "Refrain from outdoor activities from noon to 5 p.m., drink water frequently, and wear an umbrella or hat."