KOR
▲ Pohang residents cooling off in a fountain during a tropical night
Tropical nights are becoming increasingly longer and more frequent in the Daegu and Gyeongbuk regions.
Following a record-breaking number of tropical nights recently, Pohang has experienced eight consecutive days of such nights this year. With tropical night advisories issued for most areas, including Daegu, nighttime heat is becoming a daily reality.
Tropical nights are frequently observed in Daegu, which has a basin topography, and Pohang, located on the east coast.
Both regions share the characteristic of heat not dissipating easily due to their geographical features.
As the nighttime heat persists, concerns are growing for vulnerable groups, including the elderly and those with chronic illnesses.
According to the Daegu Regional Meteorological Administration on Tuesday (July 14), Pohang has recorded the highest number of annual tropical nights in the Daegu and Gyeongbuk regions since observations began in 1973.
Pohang recorded 48 days of tropical nights in both 2025 and 1994.
Pohang also holds the second (47 days in 2024) and third (38 days in 2018) highest records for tropical nights.
Daegu recorded the fourth (37 days in 1994) and fifth (36 days in 2024 and 2013) highest records based on the same criteria.
Since 1973, the Korea Meteorological Administration has been recording the number of tropical nights using representative observation points in 11 cities and counties, including Daegu, Pohang, Gumi, Yeongdeok, and Uljin.
Some areas, such as Gyeongsan, are not included in the official records even if they meet the criteria for tropical nights.
This year, the first tropical nights in the Daegu and Gyeongbuk regions were observed in Pohang and Gyeongsan during the night of July 6 to 7.
The following day, tropical nights occurred in Daegu, Gumi, Chilgok, and Seongju, in addition to Pohang and Gyeongsan.
Since then, Pohang has experienced eight consecutive days of tropical nights.
Following the issuance of the nation's first tropical night advisory for Gyeongsan, Chilgok, and Uiseong on July 8, tropical night advisories are currently in effect for most areas of Daegu and Gyeongbuk as of today.
As heatwaves and tropical nights persist, concerns are mounting regarding the health of the elderly and those with underlying medical conditions.
According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, failing to get enough rest at night due to tropical nights can lead to accumulated fatigue, headaches, and loss of appetite, which may worsen underlying conditions or lead to complications.
An official from the Korea Meteorological Administration emphasized, "In areas where tropical night advisories have been issued, it is important to keep indoor temperatures cool using air conditioners or fans and to drink plenty of water before going to bed, while avoiding caffeine and alcohol." The official added, "It is necessary to check on those vulnerable to nighttime heat, such as elderly people living alone and those with chronic illnesses."
(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.
