Subzero temperatures have recently impacted Seoraksan, intensifying an unseasonal autumn chill across the region. The early cold has led to an increase in demand for winter clothing as residents prepare for the chill. On the morning of the 22nd, temperatures in several regions dropped below 5 degrees Celsius, with Seoraksan recording a low of −0.1 degrees.
Temperature Records Across Key Cities
The morning temperatures on the 22nd were as follows:
- Seoul: 6.6 degrees
- Incheon: 7.2 degrees
- Daejeon: 7.1 degrees
- Gwangju: 10.1 degrees
- Daegu: 13.5 degrees
- Ulsan: 13.7 degrees
- Busan: 16.0 degrees
As the chill continues, daily maximum temperatures are forecasted between 13 and 23 degrees.
Weather Forecast and Upcoming Changes
The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) expects temperatures to remain slightly above seasonal averages beginning on the 23rd, coinciding with the “Sanggang” solar term. Minimum temperatures on the 23rd are forecasted to be between 8 and 16 degrees, with maximum temperatures matching earlier predictions.
Despite the milder temperatures expected, intermittent rain is anticipated across regions including Gangwon Yeongdong, the eastern coast of North Gyeongsang, and parts of Jeju. Rainfall estimates suggest:
| Region | Expected Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|
| Gangwon Yeongdong | 20–60 |
| North Gyeongsang | 5–40 |
| Busan/Ulsan | 5–20 |
| Jeju | Less than 5 |
Precipitation Statistics
The atmospheric conditions have drastically shifted. Despite facing severe drought conditions until mid-October, Gangwon Yeongdong experienced a notable change with cumulative rainfall reaching 266.2 mm over the past two weeks. This figure is 6.7 times the average of 39.3 mm for the same period, marking the highest rainfall in 53 years for these weeks.
The national average cumulative rainfall reached 110.9 mm, significantly above the seasonal norm of 22.6 mm.
The KMA has issued warnings regarding potential landslides and soil erosion in previously drought-affected areas due to the saturated ground conditions. Residents are advised to remain vigilant as additional rain is expected.
High Winds Forecasted
Additionally, strong winds are predicted in various maritime areas. Expected wind speeds are between 30 and 60 km/h, creating significant wave heights up to 4.0 meters. Regions forecasted for adverse marine conditions include:
- Central East Sea off the coast of North Gyeongsang
- Offshore waters near Jeju
- Northwest maritime areas of the West Sea
These forecasts imply that precautions should be taken, particularly along coastal and high-risk flood areas.
