[On-point] S. Korea experiences hottest summer in decades. What's behind the extreme heat?

South Korea is experiencing its hottest weather in decades, with thousands of people affected by heat-related illnesses.

For more on what's behind the extreme heat, we're joined by Professor Yoon Jin-Ho, Professor at the School of Earth Sciences and Environmental Engineering at Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology.

Professor Yoon, thanks for joining us this morning.

I don't think I remember Seoul ever being this hot. We've seen temperatures well above average over the past few weeks, with intense heatwaves followed by sudden downpours. What's causing this extreme weather?

This summer feels very different from what we're used to. Could this be the 'new normal' for summers in South Korea?

With the scorching heat likely to persist throughout the summer, how should the government and local authorities prepare for this kind of extreme weather?

It's not just the heat that's taking a toll. More than 20 people have died in South Korea due to recent torrential rains. What measures should the government take to prevent future casualties and widespread damage?

We're seeing extreme weather all over the world. Temperatures in Europe went over 40 degrees Celsius, and Türkiye even recorded the highest temperature in its history by hitting 50 degrees. But San Francisco is experiencing its coldest summer in decades. What's behind these contrasting weather patterns?

We'll have to hope the heatwave ends soon.

Alright, Professor Yoon, thank you so much for your insight today. We appreciate it.