Seoul Sizzles: 26 Nights of Unprecedented Tropical Heat!
Overview
- Seoul experiences an extraordinary 26 consecutive nights with temperatures above 25°C, the highest in 118 years.
- This ongoing heatwave reflects alarming global trends of escalating heat conditions driven by climate change.
- Meteorological experts emphasize the urgent need for actions to address the rising frequency of extreme weather events worldwide.
Historic Heat Record in Seoul
In August 2024, Seoul, South Korea shattered records with a staggering 26 nights of uninterrupted tropical weather, identified by temperatures remaining above 25 degrees Celsius. This remarkable streak sets a new standard for the region and highlights a significant climatic shift, as it marks the longest such duration since meteorological records began in 1907. According to Seoul’s Meteorology Forecast Division, factors such as limited cold air influx from the north and persistent warm winds from the south-west have contributed to this unprecedented event, affecting not only comfort levels but also public health and urban infrastructure.
Global Context of Extreme Heatwaves
Seoul's intense heat is part of a broader and concerning pattern of rising temperatures observed globally. This summer, multiple regions have faced similar extreme heat events, classified by the United Nations as an 'extreme heat epidemic.' Cities across continents, including Portland and Seattle in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, have experienced record-breaking temperatures, further indicating a shift in climatic norms. As global warming accelerates, urban areas are increasingly susceptible to heatwaves, intensifying risks related to agriculture, energy consumption, and public health, demanding immediate action from local and global governance.
The Role of Climate Change in Heat Extremes
The severe heatwaves in Seoul and elsewhere are not merely random occurrences; they are closely linked to climate change resulting from human activity. The rise in temperatures is largely attributed to the increase in greenhouse gas emissions due to fossil fuel consumption and other anthropogenic factors. This accumulation of greenhouse gases has raised Earth’s average temperatures and altered weather patterns significantly. Research indicates that heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, with scientists asserting that enhanced climate conditions are leading to hotter nights and longer heatwaves than previously recorded. Climate experts emphasize the necessity for immediate and sustained action to mitigate climate change and adapt to its ongoing impacts, ensuring communities are better prepared for future temperature extremes.
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