Effects of Extreme Heat in South Korea
South Korea is facing a serious crisis due to the extreme heat experienced in recent days. According to the South Korean Ministry of Internal Affairs, 11 people died from heat stroke between May 20 and August 3. During this period, 1,546 people went to hospitals due to symptoms related to heat stroke.
In addition, the negative effects of extreme heat on agriculture and animal husbandry were also recorded. According to the data, a total of 257,483 farm animals, 235,880 of which were poultry, died due to the extreme heat. In addition, it was reported that 5,867 fish were affected by the hot weather conditions in 6 different farms.
Warnings from Authorities
The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) announced that the current heat wave will continue for at least another 10 days. Temperatures across the country are expected to range between 30 and 36 degrees. The KMA warned citizens to take precautions against heat stroke, stressing that outdoor activities should be avoided between 14:00 and 17:00 local time.
Thermometers Break Record
In Yeoju city, located in Gyeonggi Province, thermometers rose to 40 degrees. This temperature was the highest recorded since August 4, 2018. Due to the extreme heat experienced, the South Korean Ministry of Internal Affairs issued a “Degree 1 heat wave warning” last week to raise public awareness.
