Despite the recent passage of Lichun, marking the traditional start of spring, a powerful cold wave sweeps across South Korea. Heavy snowfall blankets much of the nation starting from the morning of February 7, with morning temperatures plunging as low as -17°C in some areas.
Temperature Forecast
Meteorological observations reveal morning lows ranging from -17°C to -2°C nationwide. Daytime highs are expected to hover between -5°C and +5°C. Urban centers like Seoul and parts of the Gyeonggi region face particularly harsh conditions, with averages around -15°C to -5°C during early hours.
Snow Accumulation Projections
From February 6 to 8, significant snow buildup is anticipated. Ulleung and Dokdo islands could see 10-40 cm, while Jeju Island’s mountains forecast 10-20 cm, with heavier pockets reaching 30 cm. Central and eastern Jeju regions expect 5-15 cm, and coastal areas 3-10 cm.
Between February 7 and 8, western and southern inland areas, including Gwangju and Jeonnam’s southern regions, predict 3-8 cm of snow, potentially up to 10 cm in western spots. Jeonnnam’s Bukdong and Chungnam’s western inland areas foresee 1-3 cm, with minimal accumulations under 1 cm in southeastern and Chungbuk’s southern parts.
Additional Snow Alerts
On February 6-7, Gangwon central and southern inland, plus Gyeongbuk’s Bukbuk donghae areas, anticipate up to 1 cm of snow. Heavy snow warnings are in effect for Seoul, select Gyeonggi neighborhoods, Gangwon donghae and mountains, parts of Chungcheong, Jeonnnam donghae, and Gyeongsang regions due to substantial accumulations.
Structural and Safety Risks
Officials warn of increased roof collapse dangers from snow weight, especially in high-risk zones with greater accumulations. Recent snowfall already burdens structures nationwide. Motorists should exercise caution amid potential icy roads and reduced visibility.
Marine Conditions
Sea states remain hazardous, with waves reaching 1.0-3.5 m in the East Sea, 0.5-3.0 m in the West Sea, and 0.5-2.5 m in the South Sea. Far-eastern seas within 200 km forecast waves of 1.5-4.0 m in the East Sea, 1.0-4.0 m in the West Sea, and 1.0-3.5 m in the South Sea.
