Why is there a heatwave in South Korea?
On August 7, 2026, the South Korea heatwave reached record-breaking temperatures, with mercury levels surpassing 40 degrees Celsius or about 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
According to the Korean Meteorologists Association, the heatwave is due to “simultaneous influence from the North Pacific High and Tiberian high-pressure systems,” causing heat to become pressurized and trapped within South Korea (1).
Researchers also believe the nearby Typhoon Dolphin could be influencing the heatwave and possibly worsen conditions. If Typhoon Dolphin moves towards eastern China, humidity levels could increase and worsen heatwave conditions; however, if the typhoon moves south, stronger winds could occur and bring temporary relief from the strong heat (2).
Which cities or area are affected by the heatwave?
Extreme heat associated with the ongoing heatwave is affecting several cities and regions across South Korea, including (3)(4):
How long will the heatwave last?
The heatwave is expected to ease slightly going into the weekend of August 8 to August 9, when temperatures are expected to drop to 35°C (95°F) (5). High temperatures are likely to remain during the summer months and throughout the western region of the country. Long-term relief would depend on the path of Typhoon Dolphin, which could bring increased winds and rainfall if the typhoon moves south.
Scientists warn that human activity and excessive pollutant emissions could lead to more frequent heatwaves across the globe, with prolonged effects and increasingly intense temperatures.
Are there any alerts in place?
The Korea Meteorologists Association issued their first-ever heatwave warning to residents living in regions of Seoul and Gyeonggi on August 3, extending the warning to an all-capital alert by August 4 (6). Heatwave warnings were recently created in South Korea during 2026 as city officials noticed the extreme temperatures and rising medical cases.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung ordered public agencies and organizations to mobilize all available resources to defend against the extreme heat, sending flying drones with loudspeakers and thermal imaging cameras to warn citizens working in rural farmlands and countrysides (7). President Lee also sought out widespread electrical reformation as demands for air conditioning units increased.
Within urban city regions, sprinkler trucks have been deployed to busy streets to cool off locals, and multiple baseball games across the country were cancelled for public heat safety concerns.
Residents are advised to continue monitoring new heatwave alerts, stay inside when possible, and seek shade and hydration while venturing outside.
