Seoul Faces Cold Wave Warning: Temperatures to Plunge to -10°C by Weekend
Seoul is currently under a cold wave warning as temperatures are expected to plunge to -10°C by the weekend. This weather phenomenon is driven by a strong Arctic air mass moving southward, leading to significantly lower temperatures across the region.
Cold Wave Details
Recent weather reports indicate that temperatures in Seoul dropped to -9.4°C, with wind chill making it feel as low as -13.7°C. The coldest recorded area in South Korea was Hongseong, where temperatures reached -19°C.
Temperature Forecast
The forecast for the upcoming days is grim. On Friday, the temperature in Seoul may hit -12°C, while Paju could see a chilling -15°C. Further south, regions like Daegu can expect -8°C and Gwangju around -5°C.
Warnings and Precautions
Cold wave alerts have been expanded, excluding only the southeastern part of Seoul. Areas such as Yeongwol in Gangwon Province and Bonghwa in North Gyeongsang have been placed under a cold wave warning. Health officials advise vulnerable populations, including the elderly and children, to reduce outdoor activities to avoid cold-related illnesses.
Potential Risks
This cold snap poses several risks, including:
- Increased instances of frostbite and hypothermia among vulnerable individuals.
- Possible freezing of water meters, leading to plumbing issues.
- Potential damage to crops due to extreme low temperatures.
The cold wave is expected to last until Saturday, with a gradual recovery to average temperatures starting Sunday. Residents are urged to prepare accordingly for the harsh weather conditions.
