Authorities issue warning with scorching heat set to hit the country this week

Korea is bracing for a week of scorching heat pushing up to 34 degrees Celsius (93 degrees Fahrenheit), triggering health warnings after one heat-related death was already recorded this year.

"Daytime temperatures will rise above 30 degrees Celsius across most parts of the country for the time being,” said the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) on Monday. “The apparent temperature is expected to reach around 31 degrees Celsius in many areas, particularly in the capital region.”

The KMA emphasized that people should “take precautions” to protect their health.

Seoul reached a high of 32 degrees Celsius on Monday and is forecast to reach 33 degrees Celsius on Tuesday and Wednesday, the highest temperatures recorded in the capital so far this year.

Parts of Gyeonggi are expected to see temperatures climb to 34 degrees Celsius. In Daegu and other southern regions, temperatures are also forecast to rise steadily, reaching 34 degrees Celsius by Thursday.

The early arrival of intense summer heat is already accelerating the number of heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke and heat exhaustion.

Health authorities had recorded 227 cases of heat-related illness nationwide, including one death as of Friday.

With scorching conditions expected to persist throughout the week, officials warn that the number of cases could rise further.

Risks of heat-related diseases in Seoul are expected to remain at Level 2 on a four-tier scale through Wednesday, according to forecasts issued by the KMA and the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency.

Level 1, the lowest tier, indicates that heat-related illnesses are possible, and Level 2 indicates that heat-related illnesses are likely to occur in some areas. Level 3 points to a heightened risk of widespread cases and related health impacts, with the highest, Level 4, indicating widespread reported cases of heat-related illnesses.

North Gyeongsang, in the southeastern region, is forecast to reach Level 3 on Wednesday.

Health authorities advise minimizing exposure to direct sunlight during periods of extreme heat. People heading outdoors are encouraged to wear light clothing and use parasols or hats for shade.

"The use of parasols can lower the apparent temperature by up to 10 degrees Celsius," said an official from the Seoul Institute, an urban research think tank for the Seoul Metropolitan Government.

The institute also strongly recommended wearing wide-brimmed hats to protect against the heat.

Hydration is key to protection against heat-related diseases. While drinking water is important, consuming alcohol, coffee, or soft drinks can backfire by increasing body temperature and dehydration.

The use of handheld fans should also be reduced, as they can blow hot air onto the body. Outdoor work and exercise should be avoided during the hottest hours of the day, from noon to 5 p.m.

BY CHON KWON-PIL [[email protected]]