South Korea records its highest-ever temperature of 42.5C
South Korea recorded its highest temperature since official records began more than a century ago on Sunday. The southeastern city of Yangsan hit 42.5C at 1:26 pm local time, according to the Korea Meteorological Administration.
Yangsan has been the centre of the intense heatwave, with temperatures staying above 40C for a fifth straight day. Many other cities, including Daegu and Busan, also saw readings climb into the high 30s.
Authorities urged people to immediately stop all outdoor activities in the affected areas. More than 20 localities were placed under emergency heatwave alerts, a new warning level introduced this year. The alert is issued when perceived temperatures reach 38C or actual temperatures hit 39C.
People sought relief in air-conditioned shopping malls and cafes. One office worker in Seoul, Ju Dong-yeol, said it was too hot to do anything outside. He stayed indoors with his parents, moving between home, malls and cafes to escape the heat.
The weather agency advised everyone to move to cool places such as designated cooling centres or shaded areas and to stay hydrated. It also warned that indoor spaces without air conditioning can be dangerous.
Data from the Korea Meteorological Administration show the average number of heatwave days has more than doubled to 19 over the past five years, compared with just eight in the 1970s. A heatwave day is defined as one with a maximum temperature of at least 33C.
South Korea’s professional baseball league cancelled a game in Changwon after the temperature there reached 39.5C. Officials said the decision prioritised the safety of players and spectators.
Scientists warn that extreme weather events like this heatwave are becoming more frequent and intense because of human-induced climate change. The return of El Nino this year has added further pressure by warming Pacific Ocean surface temperatures.
Similar extreme heat has also affected Europe this summer, with temperatures rising above 40C in several southern regions and health warnings issued across many countries.
