Korean Expat Community for National Disasters

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In 2023, Korea experienced an unprecedented autumn heatwave. In September, just before the Chuseok holiday, the country was gripped by an unusual heatwave, with Seoul issuing its first-ever "September Heat Warning." Typically, September is characterized by cool autumn breezes, but this year, summer heat persisted, disrupting daily life. Seoul recorded a peak temperature of 33.9°C, and Yangpyeong and Anseong saw highs of 37.6°C. It was the first time in 14 years that a heat warning was issued in September, and tropical nights were unusually prolonged. 

This autumn heatwave significantly affected daily life. Daytime temperatures were so high that outdoor activities became undesirable, and tropical nights caused sleepless nights. Preparations for the Chuseok holiday were challenging due to the unseasonal heat, making it difficult for many to enjoy traditional outdoor activities. Instead of spending time outdoors in the cool autumn weather, families were forced to stay indoors with the air conditioner on.

Moreover, this heatwave posed serious health risks beyond mere discomfort. With perceived temperatures exceeding 35°C, the heat was particularly dangerous for the elderly, leading many to seek medical attention for heat-related illnesses. The increased use of air conditioning led to a surge in electricity consumption, burdening households with higher bills and impacting the economy. This was a moment when the tangible effects of climate change became evident.

According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, this autumn heatwave was caused by the combination of the Tibetan high-pressure system, a tropical low-pressure system near Shanghai, and the North Pacific high-pressure system. These factors trapped heat during the day, and the warm, humid southeast winds prevented temperatures from cooling down at night. This unusual weather pattern is not a natural occurrence but part of the extreme weather patterns caused by climate change.

In Korea, such unusual temperatures show the direct impact of climate change. In the past, the boundary between summer and autumn was clear, but now, summer heat extends into autumn. With climate change intensifying globally, Korea is also experiencing more frequent extreme weather events such as heatwaves, cold snaps, and heavy rainfall.

This experience underscores the importance of addressing climate change. Government policy changes and individual actions are essential. Simple steps like conserving energy and making eco-friendly choices in daily life can contribute to mitigating climate change. This autumn heatwave serves as a reminder that we need to think about how to respond to the ongoing climate crisis.