Seoul is forecast to reach 39°C on Thursday as a severe heat wave grips South Korea [1].
The extreme weather creates significant public health risks, prompting authorities to issue urgent warnings regarding high UV radiation and ozone levels [2]. These conditions increase the likelihood of heat-related illnesses and respiratory distress for residents in densely populated urban areas.
Heat-wave warnings have expanded beyond the capital to include Gwangju and western Gangwon-do [2]. The prolonged weather pattern has pushed temperatures near 40°C in several regions, leading to a surge in environmental alerts [3].
While the current forecast for Seoul is 39°C [1], other reports indicate that South Korea has recorded a peak temperature of 41°C during this period [3]. This variance highlights the intensity of the heat across different provinces, with some areas facing extreme peaks while others maintain consistently high temperatures.
Local officials are monitoring the situation as the high ozone levels combine with intense heat to degrade air quality. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities during peak sunlight hours to avoid the effects of the high UV levels [2].
“Seoul is forecast to reach 39°C on Thursday”
The intersection of extreme thermal peaks and high ozone levels represents a compounding health crisis. When temperatures exceed 39°C, the body's ability to cool itself is compromised, and high ozone levels further irritate the respiratory system, making the heat wave particularly dangerous for the elderly and those with pre-existing lung conditions.
