Severe Cold Wave Hits S. Korea as Temperatures Plunge Below −10°C

A severe cold wave has swept across South Korea, with temperatures plunging to as low as 10 degrees Celsius below zero, prompting nationwide weather warnings, authorities said on Friday.

The Korea Meteorological Administration issued cold weather alerts for much of the country after a surge of icy north-westerly winds caused a sharp drop in temperatures. The warnings cover the capital Seoul and its surrounding areas, the eastern province of Gangwon, North Chungcheong Province in central South Korea and several other regions.

According to the Yonhap News Agency, morning temperatures fell to around minus 10 degrees Celsius in many areas. At 5am local time, temperatures reached minus 10.6°C in Seoul, minus 11°C in the western city of Incheon, minus 13.6°C in Chuncheon in central South Korea, and minus 5.6°C in the southeastern port city of Busan.

Daytime highs are forecast to range between minus 5°C and 4°C nationwide. Western coastal areas, including South Chungcheong and North Jeolla provinces, are expected to see rain or snowfall as the cold system moves through.

Snow accumulation of between 2 and 7 centimeters is forecast across the wider Jeolla region through Saturday. Heavier snowfall of 5 to 10 centimeters is expected on Jeju Island, as well as on the eastern islands of Ulleungdo and Dokdo.

Authorities have urged residents to take precautions against freezing conditions, icy roads and potential travel disruptions, as the cold snap is expected to persist into the weekend.