From heat waves to downpours and back: Why S. Korea is experiencing extreme summer

South Korea is facing a summer of extremes, with scorching heat waves followed by intense downpours.

Experts say there's a reason behind this.

Park Hyo-been has the details.

This July was one of the hottest months on record in South Korea.

But it was also one of the most devastating in terms of rainfall.

According to a Korea Meteorological Administration report on Tuesday, the country's average temperature last month was 27.1 degrees Celsius, the second highest since precise records began in 1973.

There were 14.5 days categorized as "heat wave days" with temperatures exceeding 33 degrees, the third highest on record.

The extreme heat triggered a surge in heat-related illnesses.

The emergency authorities responded to over 2,400 emergency calls related to heatstroke and other conditions in July, up more than 140 percent from the same time last year.

Heavy rain has also battered parts of the country.

Mid-July saw rainfall double the seasonal average, with over 240 millimeters falling nationwide, the fourth heaviest on record for that period.

This extreme mix of heat and rain forced the government to activate both its heat wave and heavy rain Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters for the second year in a row.

Since the task force was established in 2019, this is only the second time both systems have run simultaneously.

Experts say there's a reason behind these extreme weather patterns.

"This summer, a strong North Pacific high brought in hot, humid air, while another high from Tibet expanded overhead, trapping heat over the Korean Peninsula. At the same time, cold air from the north clashed with this heat, creating intense rain clouds and heavy downpours lately."

The impact is already being felt.

Last Sunday, over 140 millimeters of rain fell in an hour in Muan-gun County, Jeollanam-do Province, leaving one person dead and causing widespread flooding.

And on Tuesday, most of the country still remains under heat advisories or warnings.

Experts recommend staying hydrated and limiting outdoor activity during peak daytime heat.

"To stay safe during heat waves, drink plenty of water regularly and avoid going outside during the hottest hours. It's better to go out in the early morning or evening."

With up to 120 millimeters of rain forecast for central regions on Wednesday, authorities are urging residents to stay alert and take precautions.

Park Hyo-been, Arirang News.