Record heatwave in South Korea as temperatures soar to 42.5C
South Korea recorded its highest temperature since modern record-keeping began, with the mercury hitting 42.5C in the southern city of Yangsan on Sunday. The extreme heat has caused widespread disruption and hardship across the country and marks a significant escalation in the heatwaves affecting the region, underscoring growing concerns about the impact of rising global temperatures.
At least 19 people have died as a result of the heatwave, according to authorities. Seoul has been placed under a severe heat warning for the first time, using a system introduced by the government this year specifically to respond to increasingly extreme temperatures.
In short
- South Korea hit 42.5C, its hottest day on record
- At least 19 deaths linked to the heatwave so far
- Seoul issues first-ever severe heat warning under new system
Explained simply
South Korea has hot, humid summers, shaped by monsoon weather and periods of high pressure that can trap heat. The country issues heat warnings to alert residents and local authorities when temperatures pose a risk to health.
The Korea Meteorological Administration records and monitors the country’s weather, while the government and local authorities organise public responses. Older people, outdoor workers and people without access to cool indoor spaces can face particular risks during prolonged heat.
Heatwaves can strain health services, disrupt work and daily life, and increase demand for electricity for cooling. Scientists link the growing intensity of many heat extremes to human-caused climate change, though any single heat event has several contributing factors.