South Korea: High temperatures forecast across most of the country through at least Aug. 29 /update 3

High temperatures are forecast across South Korea through at least Aug. 29. As of Aug. 19, the Korea Meteorological Administration has issued heatwave warnings across most of the country except for far eastern South Korea and Jeju Island. Heat advisories are in place across the rest of South Korea. Temperatures of up to 35 C (95 F) are forecast. More than 55,000 heat shelters are in operation.

Authorities have stated that the high temperatures have resulted in 23 fatalities and more than 2,700 heat-related illnesses since May 20, the start of the summer. Hundreds of thousands of livestock, including pigs, poultry, and fish, have died. At the height of the heatwave, Incheon City experienced temporary power outages due to power overloads. Seoul City deployed water-spraying vehicles spraying cool water five to six times daily 10:00-17:00, focusing on major roads. North Jeolla Province offered free water to pedestrians in six areas with a large mobile population.

The extended period of oppressive heat and dry conditions may produce ideal circumstances for wildfire growth throughout the region. Heatwaves also threaten vulnerable groups - such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with respiratory illnesses - due to the increased possibility of heat stroke or heat exhaustion during prolonged exposure to high temperatures. These health risks could also extend to relatively healthy individuals during significant heatwave events. In addition to significantly impacting athletes and those who work outdoors, high temperatures can cause problems for people using mass transit. The lack of air conditioning and cramped vehicles during rush hour may lead to some passengers' hospitalization.

Very high temperatures may damage road surfaces, and overheated vehicles may worsen traffic problems in urban areas where congestion is already a problem. Commercial trucking disruptions might occur, as very high temperatures put more stress on vehicles, making tire blowouts more common. Major flight disruptions are unlikely at regional airports, but general aviation disruptions are possible, and some airfreight carriers could reduce cargo loads. High temperatures could lead to an increased demand for electricity, which might trigger localized brownouts or blackouts, exacerbating hazardous conditions when air conditioning is no longer possible.