South Korea experienced its hottest temperature in over a century on Sunday, with the southeastern city of Yangsan reaching 42.5°C as authorities warned residents to cease outdoor activities immediately.
South Korea marked a significant meteorological milestone on Sunday when temperatures in the southeastern city of Yangsan climbed to 42.5°C, the highest reading recorded since the country began tracking weather data over a century ago. The Korea Meteorological Administration confirmed the peak temperature occurred at 1:26pm local time. Yangsan has emerged as the centre of the ongoing heat crisis, with temperatures exceeding 40°C for the fifth consecutive day, while other major cities including Daegu and Busan experienced temperatures in the high 30s Celsius.
The extreme conditions prompted authorities to issue unprecedented emergency heatwave alerts across more than 20 localities. This new warning category, introduced this year, activates when perceived temperatures are forecast to reach 38°C or actual temperatures hit 39°C. In response, the meteorological agency urged residents to "immediately stop all outdoor activities" and avoid indoor spaces without air conditioning. Residents sought refuge in air-conditioned establishments, with shopping malls and cafes becoming crowded as people attempted to escape the dangerous conditions.
The heatwave's impact extended to public events, with South Korea's professional baseball league cancelling a game in Changwon after temperatures reached 39.5°C during play. The Korea Baseball Organization cited the health and safety of spectators and players as reasons for the cancellation, marking the second consecutive game called off in the city.
The surge in extreme temperatures reflects broader climate trends. Data from the Korea Meteorological Administration shows that the average annual number of heatwave days in the country has more than doubled to 19 over the past five years, compared to eight days in the 1970s. Scientists attribute the intensification of such extreme weather events to human-induced climate change, while the return of El Niño this year has further elevated temperatures across the Pacific region and beyond.
