On a surprisingly warm Sunday that felt like spring, temperatures reached comfortable highs across South Korea. However, a significant cold snap is set to begin tomorrow, January 19, starting in the central region of the country. According to forecasts, the cold will peak on January 20—traditionally known as “Daehan,” when temperatures are expected to plunge below minus 15 degrees Celsius. This severe cold spell is anticipated to last until Monday, January 26.
Despite the warmth today, which allowed some individuals to enjoy outdoor activities in shorts or engage in spirited games, the weather will soon take a dramatic turn. In cities like Jeju, temperatures reached 15.5 degrees, while Busan and Gwangju both saw highs of 15 degrees. In Changwon, the temperature peaked at 13.6 degrees.
As the day transitioned into the evening, metropolitan areas like Seoul began experiencing a chill as clouds moved in. Starting Monday, morning lows are expected to dip into the sub-zero range. By Tuesday, the cold will extend to southern regions, with particularly severe drops expected in areas like Cheorwon and Daegwallyeong, where temperatures may well fall below minus 15 degrees.
The current weather system is influenced by a high-pressure front extending from the Bering Sea to the Korean Peninsula, trapping cold air and contributing to the impending severe cold. While snow is anticipated along the west coast, the east coast will experience dry conditions.
Meteorological reports indicate that regions in southern Gyeonggi, Chungcheong, and North Jeolla provinces could see around 1cm of snow, with flurries expected in Seoul. Given that this cold snap could persist into early next week, authorities are advising the public to take precautions against cold-related illnesses and potential frozen pipes.
As South Koreans brace for this cold front, it serves as a reminder of the season’s unpredictability, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of the populace in the face of nature’s challenges.