As the ongoing heat wave continues, cases of tap water temperature exceeding 30 degrees Celsius have been reported in rural areas of South Jeolla Province, prompting local governments to formulate emergency measures.
According to Jangheung County on the 18th, complaints about 'the tap water being too hot' have been received consecutively. Upon inspection by the county, it was found that in a village in Busan-myeon, the tap water temperature was nearly 31 degrees Celsius. The water quality tests showed no significant abnormalities.
Residents are finding it difficult to even take showers or wash dishes. One resident noted, 'It's concerning to come home after working in the fields and find hot water gushing out, leading to a fear of heat-related illnesses,' expressing discomfort.
Experts analyzed that the increase in water temperature is caused by heat from geothermal sources heating buried water pipes, stagnant water in the pipes for extended periods, and old pipelines that are buried shallowly. This contrasts with the relatively cool tap water in urban apartment complexes.
Currently, complaints of 'the water not being cool' are also being reported not only in Jangheung but also in Yeosu and Namhae in South Gyeongsang Province. Local governments are alleviating the situation by releasing stagnant water in the pipes in large quantities to lower the temperature, but finding a fundamental solution remains a challenge.
A Jangheung County official said, 'The prolonged heat this summer is causing serious inconveniences for residents,' and added, 'We will cooperate with the water resources corporation to investigate the exact causes and prepare measures.'