South Korea: Adverse winter weather forecast across most of the country through at least Jan. 11

Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across much of South Korea through at least Jan. 11. Cold temperatures and strong winds are forecast across much of the country and heavy snowfall is possible in eastern and southeastern regions. Temperatures of -10 C (14 F) were recorded in Seoul Jan. 9 and even lower temperatures are expected Jan. 10. Snowfall accumulations of more than 30 cm (12 inches) are possible on Jeju Island and in North and South Jeolla provinces. Flight disruptions have been reported in southern regions Jan. 9 due to the adverse winter weather; at least 27 flights have been canceled at airports across the region, including eight at Gwangju Airport (KWJ) and five at Jeju International Airport (CJU). At least 73 ferry services operating from ports including Incheon Port and Baengnyeong Island have canceled operations.

As of Jan. 9, the Korea Meteorological Administration has issued heavy snowfall warnings across mountainous areas of Jeju Island and parts of North and South Jeolla provinces. Snowfall advisories are in place across much of the rest of southeastern and parts of far eastern South Korea. Cold wave warnings are in place across northern and central parts of the country, with cold wave advisories issued across much of the rest of the interior of South Korea. Strong wind warnings and advisories are also in place across much of the country. 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 probable 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.