South Korea: Adverse winter weather forecast across northern regions through at least Jan. 10

Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across much of northern South Korea through at least Jan. 10. Heavy snowfall is expected across the region Jan. 9, with snowfall accumulations of around 20 cm (8 inches) forecast in mountainous parts of Gangwon Province, around 15 cm (6 inches) in parts of Gyeonggi Province, and around 10 cm (4 inches) in Seoul. Reduced visibility is possible in areas where strong winds combine with snowfall to generate blowing and drifting snow. Snowfall amounts are expected to diminish across much of the region Jan. 10; however, cold temperatures are likely to persist and hazardous travel conditions may continue due to icy roads. As of Jan. 8, the Korea Meteorological Administration has issued preliminary heavy snowfall warnings across the affected area. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

In addition to the wintry precipitation, strong wind gusts could lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Blizzard conditions are possible. Sporadic power outages are likely in the most severely affected areas.

The winter weather will probably cause ground transport disruptions across affected areas over the coming days. Hazardous travel conditions are likely due to icy roads, snowfall accumulations, and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are likely along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in affected areas as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highways if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may topple high-profile vehicles. Flight disruptions, including delays and cancellations, are likely amid ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.