Seoul experiences a sharp morning chill, with temperatures plunging to minus 8 degrees Celsius in Gwanak-gu on Monday, the 9th. A powerful cold wave persists nationwide through tomorrow, triggering widespread frost and initial snowfalls.
Temperatures Plunge Across South Korea
Forecasts indicate the nation records its coldest morning temperatures yet, ranging from minus 15 degrees to minus 3 degrees Celsius. Regions including northern and southern Gyeonggi inland areas, Gangwon’s inland and mountainous zones, Chungcheong inland, Jeonbuk’s northern east, Gyeongbuk region, and parts of southern Gyeongnam see their first snow patches.
Major urban areas nationwide develop frost by Monday morning. Inland locations face even harsher conditions, intensifying the freeze.
Freezing Catch Basins Pose Risks
Catch basins in Seoul’s Gwanak-gu freeze solid, even in shallow depressions, with temperatures dipping from minus 3 degrees to minus 11 degrees Celsius. Stagnant water bubbles from trapped gases, leading to complete solidification across surfaces.
Officials note that average freezing points vary, but bubbling accelerates the process in affected basins.
Heavy Snow and Winds Batter Jeju
Gangneung’s special mayor confirms full freezes in Jeonnam’s Haenam and Gyeongbuk’s southern Donghae areas as of the 8th. Jeju Island’s southern regions endure freezing conditions, with the entire island facing gusts up to 70 km/h and visibility dropping to 20 meters in Seogwipo until Monday afternoon.
