South Korea has recorded its highest temperature since weather records began more than a century ago, according to the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA).
The city of Yangsan, located in the country’s southeast, reached a scorching 42.5°C at 1:26 p.m. local time on Sunday. This marks the highest temperature ever officially recorded in South Korea.
Yangsan has become the main hotspot during the country’s ongoing heatwave. On Sunday, temperatures in the city exceeded 40°C for the fifth consecutive day, highlighting the severity of the extreme weather.
Heatwave Warnings Expanded Across the Country
Authorities have issued heatwave warnings across much of South Korea as temperatures continue to rise. Several cities recorded daytime temperatures in the high 30s, increasing health risks for residents.
More than 20 regions remained under emergency heatwave alerts on Sunday. The government introduced this new warning category earlier this year to strengthen its response to increasingly dangerous heat conditions.
An emergency alert is issued when an area is expected to experience a perceived temperature of 38°C or an actual temperature of 39°C for at least one day.
Heatwaves Becoming More Frequent
According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, the number of heatwave days in South Korea has increased significantly in recent years. Over the past five years, the country has averaged 19 heatwave days per year, compared with only eight days annually during the 1970s.
The agency defines a heatwave day as one in which the highest temperature reaches 33°C or above. A tropical night occurs when overnight temperatures remain above 25°C, offering little relief from the daytime heat.
Climate Change Driving Extreme Weather
Climate experts warn that human-caused climate change is making extreme weather events more common and more severe. Rising global temperatures are increasing the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, creating growing challenges for public health, infrastructure, and the environment.
