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▲ Heat Wave
The heat waves in Daegu and Gyeongsangbuk-do this summer are showing a different pattern from usual years.
As extreme heat continues with heavy heat wave warnings issued in various places including Daegu, Gyeongsan, Gyeongju, and Pohang, the epicenter of the scorching heat appears to be spreading beyond Daegu—traditionally dubbed "Daefrica" (a portmanteau of Daegu and Africa)—to all of Gyeongsangbuk-do.
Some observers suggest that the region may have entered the "era of extreme heat."
Heavy heat wave warnings took effect at 11:00 AM today (July 26) in Gyeongsan, Cheongdo, and parts of downtown Daegu in Gyeongsangbuk-do.
Temperatures have been soaring above 30°C (86°F) since early morning.
As of 10:00 AM today, regional temperatures stood at 32.4°C (90°F) in Daegu, 33.7°C (93°F) in Gyeongju, 32.6°C (91°F) in Gumi, 30.7°C (87°F) in Andong, and 33.2°C (92°F) in Pohang.
According to the Daegu Regional Meteorological Administration, additional heavy heat wave warnings were issued for the southern, northern, and central parts of Dalseong in Daegu.
In Gyeongsangbuk-do, heavy heat wave warnings were issued for Gyeongsan and Cheongdo at the same time, joining Gyeongju and Pohang, where warnings were already in place.
In Gyeongsangbuk-do, heavy heat wave warnings have been in effect in areas like Gyeongju since the previous day.
Heavy heat wave warnings are issued when the highest perceived temperature is 38°C (100°F) or higher, or when the highest temperature is 39°C (102°F) or higher in areas where the highest perceived temperature of 35°C (95°F) or higher has continued for two days or more. Heat wave warnings or advisories are in effect for most other areas in Daegu and Gyeongsangbuk-do where heavy warnings have not been issued.
Analysis indicates that recent heat wave patterns in Daegu and Gyeongsangbuk-do are changing compared to the past.
This is because record-breaking high temperatures surpassing Daegu are continuing not only in Daegu—which was once a symbol of the country's highest heat as "Daefrica"—but also in various inland and east coast areas of Gyeongsangbuk-do, including Gyeongsan, Gyeongju, Pohang, and Yeongdeok.
According to meteorological observation data, the all-time highest temperatures in Daegu and Gyeongsangbuk-do include 40.4°C (105°F) in Uiseong, with Yeongdeok (39.9°C / 104°F), Gyeongju (39.8°C / 104°F), and Pohang (39.4°C / 103°F) also recording highs approaching 40°C (104°F).
Automatic Weather System (AWS) readings also captured extreme high temperatures surpassing official figures, such as 41°C (106°F) in Sinnyeong, Yeongcheon, and 40.6°C (105°F) in Hayang, Gyeongsan.
The Korea Meteorological Administration introduced heavy heat wave warnings for the first time this year, which is interpreted as a measure reflecting the recent trend of heat wave risks expanding beyond specific cities to the entirety of Gyeongsangbuk-do.
An official from the Meteorological Administration explained, "Recent heat waves are showing a pattern of expanding spatial scope and strengthening persistence," adding, "High-temperature phenomena are becoming pronounced not only in Daegu but also in the inland and east coast regions of Gyeongsangbuk-do."
The Daegu Regional Meteorological Administration stated, "As strong sunlight continues, temperatures are expected to keep rising," and advised, "Special caution is required, such as refraining from outdoor activities like farming and going out."
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.
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