South Korea: Widespread heatwave warnings as of July 17

Event

The majority of South Korea is under heatwave warnings as of Tuesday, July 17, expanding upon warnings issued on July 16 for North Gyeongsang, South Gyeongsang, North Chungcheong, South Chuncheong, and parts of Jeolla province. Heat advisories are in effect for much of the remainder of the country. High temperatures are expected to continue nationwide through early August.

At least six fatalities linked to high temperatures have been recorded in 2018, including four since July 12. On July 12 and 15, two elderly women died in South Gyeongsang, while on Tuesday, July 17, authorities announced the heat-related deaths of an elderly man and a young child in North Jeolla and Gyeonggi, respectively. From May 20 to July 15, at least 551 people suffered heat-related health problems, with more than half of the cases arising between July 12 and 15, according to Korean health officials. Officials report that the greatest number of reported health problems have come from South Gyeongsang, Gyeonggi, North Gyeongsang, and South Jeolla.

Context

These high temperatures could be hazardous to health, particularly for the elderly, young children, and people suffering from chronic illnesses such as cardiac issues, hypertension, and diabetes. Symptoms of heatstroke include high fever, hot, red, dry skin, headache, nausea, drowsiness, intense thirst, confusion, convulsions, and loss of consciousness.

Advice

Individuals in affected areas are advised to keep abreast of local weather forecasts, avoid strenuous outdoor activity, remain indoors as much as possible between noon and 16:00 when temperatures tend to peak, remain well hydrated (with sugar-free, non-alcoholic beverages), and wear loose, light-colored clothing. Do not hesitate to seek medical attention if displaying symptoms of heatstroke.