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The Record-Breaking Heatwave of 2026: Causes, Impacts, and How to Stay Safe

By Ji-Won Choi, reporter

Image of a Child Shielding from the Scorching Sun at Dongdaegu Station

South Korea is experiencing a record-breaking heat wave this summer. In early August, temperatures in Seoul exceeded 39°C for two consecutive days, while temperatures in Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, surpassed 41°C, marking unusually high temperatures across the country. This year’s heat wave is even raising the possibility that 2026 could become the hottest year on record in South Korea, surpassing the previous record set in 2018. In particular, unusually warm seas are making it difficult for temperatures to drop at night, raising concerns that tropical nights could continue for an extended period. Heat waves should no longer be viewed simply as uncomfortable summer weather, but as a serious social issue that threatens public health and everyday life.

Current Heat Wave Situation

On August 2, temperatures in Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, exceeded 42°C. The following day, a daily high of 40.9°C was recorded by an Automated Weather Station (AWS) in Buk-gu, Daegu. This surpassed the previous record of 40.0°C measured at Daegu’s official weather station in 1942, marking the return of temperatures above 40°C in Daegu after approximately 80 years.

South Korea’s average temperature in July this year was 26.8°C, making it the third-highest July average since nationwide weather monitoring was expanded in 1973. The national average number of tropical nights was 9.7, approximately 3.5 times higher than the average of 2.8 days, setting a new record. The average minimum temperature also reached 23.4°C, the highest level ever recorded.

On July 27, the government raised the heat wave alert to its highest level, “Severe,” and began operating Level 2 of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters on August 2. This marks the first time since 2023 that Level 2 has been activated in response to a heat wave. The government has strengthened inter-ministerial response efforts and dispatched on-site situation managers to each province and major city. It is also using emergency text alerts, electronic billboards, and village broadcasts to provide information on heat wave conditions and safety guidelines.

In addition to the growing number of heat-related casualties, the livestock and aquaculture industries are also suffering significant losses. As temperatures inside livestock facilities have risen sharply, more than 432,000 livestock animals have died so far. This includes approximately 28,000 pigs and 404,000 poultry, such as chickens and ducks. Rising water temperatures have also caused the deaths of approximately 165,000 farmed fish, including olive flounder and mullet. As a result, the damage caused by the heat wave is spreading across the agricultural, livestock, and fisheries industries.

Causes of the Heat Wave

The record-breaking heat wave this year has been largely influenced by the North Pacific High and the Tibetan High. As the two high-pressure systems overlap over the Korean Peninsula, hot air becomes trapped, while strong sunlight continues to heat the surface. The Korea Meteorological Administration analyzed that the Foehn effect, in which easterly winds become warmer as they cross the mountains, also contributed to the extreme heat, particularly in the Yeongnam region.

The basin-shaped terrain surrounded by mountains and the urban heat island effect have also intensified the heat wave. Heat accumulated in the ground and buildings during the day does not easily escape at night, preventing temperatures from dropping significantly and contributing to prolonged tropical nights. In addition, high sea surface temperatures and humid air around the Korean Peninsula make it more difficult for temperatures to fall overnight, further extending the duration of tropical nights.

Heat-Related Illnesses: Symptoms and Prevention

As heat waves continue, one of the most important health concerns is heat-related illness, which can occur when the body is exposed to high temperatures for an extended period. Common heat-related illnesses include heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and it is important to recognize the early symptoms and respond quickly. Heat exhaustion can cause severe fatigue, dizziness, headaches, nausea, muscle cramps, and excessive sweating. Heatstroke is more serious and can occur when the body temperature rises above 40°C, causing symptoms such as confusion, altered consciousness, or seizures. If these symptoms occur, the person should immediately move to a cool or shaded place, loosen tight clothing, and cool the body. If severe symptoms, such as a loss of consciousness, occur, medical attention should be sought immediately.

To prevent heat-related illnesses, it is important to avoid outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day and drink plenty of water. People who spend long periods outdoors, including those working part-time jobs during the summer, should take regular breaks in cool or shaded areas. Wearing lightweight, breathable clothing and using hats or parasols can also help reduce direct exposure to sunlight. It is also important to drink water regularly before feeling thirsty. Since heat-related illnesses can often be prevented, paying close attention to your physical condition and avoiding excessive outdoor activity are among the most important ways to stay safe during a heat wave.

Heat waves are more than just hot weather; they can directly affect our health and daily lives. College students who frequently commute, spend time outdoors, or work part-time jobs need to pay extra attention to extreme heat. Checking the temperature and heat wave alerts before going outside, drinking plenty of water, and reducing outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day can help prevent heat-related health problems. This summer, rather than viewing heat waves as simply hot weather, college students should recognize them as a weather phenomenon that requires caution and take active steps to protect their health.

Source: 

https://www.etoday.co.kr/news/view/2611633

https://m.thescienceplus.com/news/newsview.php?ncode=1065579463833943

https://www.coloradotimesnews.com/%EC%99%9C-%EC%9D%B4%EB%A0%87%EA%B2%8C-%EB%8D%94%EC%9A%B8%EA%B9%8C-%ED%95%9C%EA%B5%AD-42-5%EB%8F%84%C2%B7%EB%AF%B8%EA%B5%AD-51%EB%8F%84-%EB%A7%8C%EB%93%A0-%ED%8F%AD%EC%97%BC%EC%9D%98-%EC%9B%90/

https://www.joongang.co.kr/article/25335307 (figure 1)