A cold wave advisory will take effect in the mountainous regions of Taebaek and Pyeongchang in Gangwon Province at 9:00 p.m. on October 5.

This cold wave advisory is reportedly the earliest issued nationwide since the current cold wave advisory system was overhauled in 2005.

The Korea Meteorological Administration forecasted that as cold air flows in, morning temperatures in the mountainous regions of Gangwon will drop below freezing on October 6, with strong winds making it feel even colder.

It also projected that frost and ice would form in some inland areas.

Local governments are moving to take early responses to the unexpectedly early cold wave advisory.

The city of Taebaek is drawing up measures centered on protecting vulnerable groups, inspecting cold wave shelters and mitigation facilities, and preventing frost and low-temperature damage to crops in response to the sudden cold wave news.

In addition, to prepare for winter road icing, it is additionally installing road heating cables across 8 locations spanning a 2.1-kilometer section, focusing on sidewalks frequently used by the elderly and students, expanding the total to 36 locations.

Pyeongchang County is also making thorough preparations for a snow removal system tailored to the characteristics of its mountainous terrain.

The Korea Meteorological Administration urged caution regarding crop cold damage prevention and health management amid sudden temperature changes.

(Photo: Yonhap News)