Subzero morning temperatures are returning across most regions of South Korea on Monday, January 16. This period is expected to bring significant temperature swings and heavy air pollution.
Temperature Forecast
The temperature is projected to drop below zero in the morning. The daytime and nighttime temperature difference may reach around 15 degrees Celsius.
Frost is anticipated, particularly in inland areas of the central region and Jeolla province. The Korea Meteorological Administration warns that snow accumulation in the mountainous regions of Gangwon and North Gyeongsang will refreeze at night, creating icy conditions on roads, especially on bridges and overpasses.
Morning and Evening Temperatures
- Morning low temperatures are expected to range from -3°C to 7°C.
- Afternoon highs will range from 10°C to 16°C.
Specific Regional Temperature Predictions
| Region | Morning Low (°C) | Afternoon High (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| Seoul | 1 | 13 |
| Incheon | 1 | 11 |
| Su-won | -2 | 12 |
| Seongnam | -1 | 14 |
| Ulsan | 4 | 13 |
| Busan | 6 | 15 |
| Gwangju | 2 | 15 |
Other local areas will see variations, such as Jeju with temperatures between 6°C to 12°C, and Daegu ranging from 2°C to 15°C. Overall, the sky forecast shows occasional clouds nationwide, while fog may reduce visibility to less than 1 kilometer in some inland areas during the early morning.
Air Quality Concerns
The level of fine dust pollution will be noticeable, particularly due to residual pollutants and stagnant atmospheric conditions. Regions like Seoul, southern Gyeonggi, Gangwon Province’s Yeongseo area, Sejong, Chungbuk, Daegu, and North Gyeongsang are forecasted to experience poor air quality.
However, areas such as Daejeon, Jeonbuk, Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongnam are expected to have poor air quality in the morning. Residents are advised to take precautions against the cold and monitor air quality reports regularly.
