Temperatures on the 8th ranging from -17 to 4 degrees
Strong winds lowering the wind chill
Heavy snowfall of 1~3cm per hour in Jeju and Jeolla regions
On the morning of the 7th, as snow fell in many parts of the country amid a severe cold wave, citizens in the Gwanghwamun Square area of Jongno-gu, Seoul, are seen moving about. As cold wave warnings were issued for Seoul, Gyeonggi, Gangwon, and other parts of the country, the intense cold, with temperatures dipping below -17 degrees Celsius, is expected to continue through the weekend. Heavy snow is also forecasted for Jeolla and Jeju regions, necessitating preparation for cold wave and snow damage.
The Korea Meteorological Administration forecasted morning low temperatures on the 8th ranging from -17 to -5 degrees Celsius, and daytime highs from -4 to 4 degrees Celsius. On Sunday, the 9th, morning lows will range from -15 to -3 degrees, and daytime highs from -2 to 6 degrees. These temperatures are 3 to 10 degrees lower than the seasonal averages. This cold spell is a result of cold air descending from the northwest of the Korean Peninsula, with strong winds expected to make it feel even colder.
Snowfall is anticipated in many parts of the country as well. Over the two days until the 8th, the predicted snowfall amounts are 3 to 10cm in the capital area, 1 to 8cm in Gangwon, 5 to 15cm in Chungcheong, 5 to 25cm in Jeolla, 1 to 8cm in Gyeongsang, and 10 to 30cm in the mountainous areas of Jeju. Particularly, Jeolla is expected to receive heavy snow at a rate of 1 to 3cm per hour until the 8th, and Jeju Island until the 9th.
The Korea Meteorological Administration urges people to prepare for the cold wave and heavy snow. In areas where heavy snow is expected, tree branches might fall, and structures like livestock sheds and greenhouses may collapse, so pre-emptive measures are necessary. Drivers are advised to check traffic conditions in advance and be equipped with winter gear, as roads may be blocked. Snow accumulation is anticipated to create icy roads on side streets, alleyways, sloped roads, and shaded roads, requiring caution from both drivers and pedestrians.