Severe Cold Persists This Week, Increasing Wildfire Risk Due to Dry Conditions
The peak of the severe cold has passed, but frigid temperatures are expected to persist this week. Morning temperatures may drop to around -10 degrees Celsius, exacerbating dry conditions that increase the risk of wildfires.
Frigid Conditions This Week
This morning in Seoul, the temperature recorded was -8 degrees Celsius, with a noticeable wind chill making it feel like -12.5 degrees. Although slightly better compared to last week’s temperatures, which dipped below -10 degrees and felt closer to -20, the harsh cold continues.
Weather Alerts and Forecast
- Cold wave warnings in northern Gyeonggi and Gangwon have been downgraded to advisories.
- Seoul and regions in southern Gyeonggi, Chungcheong, and parts of North Gyeongsang have had their cold alerts lifted.
- Forecasts predict that most areas will stay below the seasonal average until Sunday.
Strong cold air continues to move down from the north. Although the weather patterns blocking the cold air have eased, new cold fronts are still arriving.
Snowfall Predictions
Snow is expected to blanket regions such as Ulleungdo and Jeju’s mountainous areas. In addition, western coastal regions of Honam and parts of Chungnam may see light snowfall:
- Ulleungdo: Up to 10 cm
- Jeju mountains: 1-5 cm
- Western Honam: 1-3 cm
- Western Chungnam: Approximately 1 cm
Temperature-induced icy roads pose a danger for drivers throughout these regions.
Increased Wildfire Risk
A significant wildfire occurred early this morning at Suraksan in Nowon District, Seoul. The fire ignited around 2:30 AM and took roughly 6 hours and 43 minutes to put out. Although there are currently no ongoing fires, 37 wildfires have been reported this month alone.
Current Warnings
- A drying warning is issued for the eastern coastline.
- Dry advisories apply to most regions of Yeongdong, Yeongnam, and parts of northeastern and southwestern Seoul.
The Forest Service cautions that gusty winds of approximately 15 m/s are expected nationwide, further elevating the wildfire risk. Residents are urged to refrain from any outdoor burning activities.
Preparedness is critical during these conditions. Small sparks can escalate into massive wildfires very quickly, posing a significant threat to forested areas.
