Heat warning issued for Gyeonggi region as temperatures rise to 30 degrees
Sizzling summer heat is engulfing Jeonju, North Jeolla, with a hazy shimmer visible on Hyoja-ro. On June 15, Korea issued its first heat advisory of the season. [NEWS1]
Behind the Oven-Like Conditions: A Deeper Look
Climate Change and Rising Temperatures
Global warming is causing temperatures to rise globally, and Korea is not immune to this trend. This escalating warmth contributes to the early arrival of heatwaves and an increase in heat-related illnesses. [1][2]
Urban Heat Island Effect
Cities like Seoul are particularly scorched by the urban heat island effect, which intensifies temperature rises due to factors such as surface reflectivity, hard surfaces, and scant green spaces. [2][4] This phenomenon intensifies heat stress in urban areas.
Regional Climate Patterns
Changes in regional climate patterns, such as the influence of the Tibetan High and reduced snowfall in China, can lead to higher temperatures in Korea by transporting hot air from these regions. [2]
Early Heatwaves
Record-breaking temperatures in spring can trigger an early onset of heat-related illnesses. In recent years, Korea has experienced early heatwaves, with temperatures soaring significantly even before the arrival of summer. [1]
Demographic and Infrastructure Factors
Urban population density and the design of residential areas can contribute to heat stress. Areas with poor air circulation, such as densely cramped neighborhoods, experience more severe heat conditions. [5]
In summary, while specific details for 2022 are not available, these factors generally contribute to the early appearance of heat-related illnesses during Korea's summer months. Don't let the blazing heat take you down—stay hydrated, seek shade, and stay cool! [6]
Sources
- Heat-related illnesses strike early this year with 44 in May already
- Understanding the Urban Heat Island Effect
- Mercury to hit 34 degrees as summer swelter begins, monsoon rains arrive this week
- Summer forecast to be hotter than average, weather agency says
- Combating the Urban Heat Island Effect: Strategies for Sustainable Cities
- How to Stay Cool During Heatwaves
- Despite the artistic journey through Jeonju's Hyoja-ro, its current weather conditions are a stark reminder of the rising global temperatures due to climate change, a phenomenon that has made Korea more susceptible to early heatwaves.
- To counterbalance the scorching urban heat island effect that is intensifying temperatures in cities like Seoul, there's a need for initiatives to incorporate more greenery into the cityscape, given that ample arts and environment integration could help mitigate heat stress during the summer months.
