Seoul and Capital Region Face Smog Alert Amid High Temperatures Until Holiday
As the Seollal holiday approaches, a significant smog alert has been issued for Seoul and the surrounding Capital Region. This marks the first instance of high concentration fine dust emergency measures in 2023. The alert went into effect at 6 AM today and will remain until 9 PM.
Emergency Measures in Place
The emergency measures extend beyond Seoul. Incheon, Gyeonggi Province, and the Yeongseo region of Gangwon also surpassed the pollution threshold, prompting similar alerts. According to the National Institute of Environmental Research, stagnant air combined with smog has led to average fine particulate matter concentrations exceeding 50 µg/m³ in the central and northern regions.
Forecasted Air Quality
- Areas expected to experience high pollution levels include Seoul, Gyeonggi Province, and the Yeongseo region.
- The emergency measures will include vehicle restrictions and reduced operating hours for administrative and public agencies.
- This haze is projected to persist through the upcoming weekend and holiday period.
Relief is anticipated next week as easterly winds are expected to improve air quality. Residents are advised to take precautions during this period of elevated smog to protect their health. As conditions evolve, El-Balad will continue to provide updates on the situation in Seoul and the wider Capital Region.
