Cherry Blossom Season Peaks As Storm Approaches Seoul

As cherry blossoms in Seoul reach their peak, the city is abuzz with vibrant spring festivals. However, the joy of the season may be short-lived, as forecasts predict a drastic change in the weather this weekend. According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, Friday, April 11, 2025, is likely the last day for locals and tourists to fully enjoy the blooming cherry blossoms before heavy rain and strong winds sweep across the country.

On this sunny Friday, temperatures across Seoul are expected to hover between 17 and 25 degrees Celsius, with the afternoon high reaching around 24 degrees. This unseasonably warm weather has drawn many to parks and streets to take photos against the backdrop of stunning cherry blossoms. In fact, cherry blossoms in Seoul are at their peak today, marking a beautiful spectacle for those who have waited for this moment.

However, the pleasant weather is not set to last. The Korea Meteorological Administration warns that beginning Saturday morning, April 12, rain will start in Jeju Island and spread nationwide by the afternoon. The forecast indicates that rain will continue into Sunday morning, April 13, with unstable atmospheric conditions leading to possible thunder and lightning across the country.

Heavy rain is anticipated, with Jeju Island expected to receive between 20 to 60 millimeters, and mountainous areas possibly seeing up to 80 millimeters. Other regions will also experience significant rainfall: Jeonnam coast and eastern inland areas, as well as Gyeongnam western coast and southern inland areas, are forecasted to receive 10 to 50 millimeters. In the Seoul metropolitan area, rainfall is expected to range from 5 to 20 millimeters, while the Gangwon East Coast may see 5 to 10 millimeters.

As the rain begins, temperatures will take a sharp dip. Morning lows on Sunday are expected to plummet to between 2 and 9 degrees Celsius, with afternoon highs only reaching 10 to 16 degrees. Additionally, strong winds are forecasted, with gusts reaching speeds of 70 kilometers per hour nationwide, and up to 90 kilometers per hour in mountainous regions. This sudden change in weather raises concerns about health and safety, as the wind chill factor may make it feel even colder.

Inland areas may also experience an unusual phenomenon: snow. Regions like eastern Gyeonggi, Gangwon inland and mountainous areas, and northern Chungbuk and Gyeongbuk may see snowfall, with Gangwon mountainous areas expecting up to 5 centimeters of accumulation. This unexpected wintery weather in April could catch many off guard, especially after the spring-like temperatures experienced earlier in the week.

As the cherry blossom season draws to a close, many are taking to social media to share their experiences and photos, capturing the fleeting beauty of the blossoms. "Today is the perfect day to enjoy the cherry blossoms before the rain hits!" one local remarked while taking pictures at Yangjaecheon Stream in Seoul. The cherry blossom season, which started later than usual this year due to cold snaps, has finally reached its climax, creating a picturesque scene across the city.

Despite the impending storm, the cherry blossom festivals continue to attract crowds, with events planned throughout the day. Many are making the most of Friday, April 11, as they anticipate the arrival of rain and wind that will mark the end of this year's cherry blossom viewing season.

Looking ahead, the weather is expected to stabilize after the weekend, but the significant drop in temperature will serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of spring weather in Korea. As people prepare for the rainy weekend, it’s essential to stay informed and take precautions against the elements.

In summary, while the cherry blossoms may soon be a memory, the joy they brought during this brief season will linger on. As the rain washes away the delicate petals, it also signals the transition into a new season, one that will bring different beauty and experiences.