Record November Snowfall Hits South Korea's Capital
Overview
- Seoul experiences its heaviest November snowfall in history, exceeding 16 cm.
- Impressive record-breaking snowfall causes traffic chaos and power outages.
- Unusual meteorological conditions lead to significant temperature contrasts, creating heavy snow.
Unprecedented Snowfall Blankets Seoul
On November 27, 2024, the enchanting city of Seoul faced an astonishing natural event—16.5 cm of snow fell, making it the heaviest November snowfall ever recorded in the city’s history. This phenomenal amount not only shattered the previous record of 12.4 cm set back in 1972, but it also marked a significant milestone since reliable records began in 1907! Residents, who ventured out to witness this wintry spectacle, found themselves in a beautifully transformed environment, with streets draped in snow like a cozy blanket. However, amidst this picturesque setting, the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) promptly warned citizens to stay indoors, urging them to avoid driving or venturing outside due to dangerously slick conditions.
Widespread Disruptions from Heavy Snowfall
The repercussions of this extraordinary snowfall were swift and severe. Major roads came to a standstill, as cars slipped and slid, unable to navigate the icy surfaces, leading to frustrating traffic jams. To make matters worse, over 150 households lost power when branch-laden trees collapsed onto power lines, forcing dozens into darkness. The snowstorm even disrupted air travel, leading to the cancellation of approximately 22 domestic flights and causing ripple effects across many travel plans. In a proactive response, President Yoon Suk Yeol urgently called for city officials to mobilize efforts to mitigate public inconvenience, highlighting his commitment to ensure the safety and well-being of the citizens as more snow was anticipated.
Exploring the Weather Patterns Behind the Snow
Experts from the KMA illuminated the unusual meteorological phenomena that contributed to this record-breaking event. They revealed that a significant temperature contrast between the warmer ocean and the cold northern air resulted in ideal conditions for heavy snowfall. When moist air, propelled by strong westerly winds, collided with the city, it unleashed a relentless barrage of snow over specific locations, repeating time and again. This weather pattern not only resulted in the striking snowfall but also signaled a concerning trend of extreme weather conditions across South Korea. As meteorologists continued to analyze the impacts, residents were advised to remain vigilant and prepared for further winter surprises, recognizing that such drastic weather changes could become more common in the future.
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