On March 10, 2025, South Korea is bracing for unseasonably warm weather alongside significant concerns about air quality due to fine dust pollution.
The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) has forecasted mild temperatures across the nation, with highs expected to reach around 15 degrees Celsius, particularly notable for mid-March. This marks approximately 2 to 3 degrees higher than the seasonal averages, which typically range from lows of -4 to highs of 13 degrees. Inland areas, nonetheless, will experience substantial temperature swings from day to night, potentially reaching differences of up to 15 degrees, prompting health advisories for the public to manage potential respiratory issues.
Compounding the health warnings is the forecast of fine dust (PM10) and ultrafine dust (PM2.5) concentrations categorized as 'bad'. Areas such as Seoul, the capital region, and parts of Chungcheongnam-do (Chungnam) and Jeollabuk-do (Jeonbuk) are at particularly high risk. Morning conditions are projected to be troublesome, with Daejeon, Chungbuk, and Gwangju expected to register poor air quality levels early on.
The KMA indicated: "Fine dust concentrations will be at 'bad' levels, necessitating caution, especially for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly." It also highlighted the prevalence of thick fog, especially along the west coast of the peninsula, which is anticipated to drop visibility to less than 200 meters, creating hazardous conditions for drivers.
Across regions, the day's weather will vary significantly. Central areas, including parts of Jeonbuk and Gyeongbuk, will enjoy clearer skies. Meanwhile, the southern coasts, particularly Jeollanam-do (Jeonnam) and Gyeongsangnam-do (Gyeongnam), will be intermittently cloudy. There is also anticipated rainy weather starting late at night on Jeju Island, with 5 to 20 mm expected to fall by the following day. Southern parts of Jeonnam and areas of Gyeongnam might see brief showers as dawn breaks on March 11.
Jeju, enduring relatively warmer conditions and cloud cover throughout the day, stands out as the only region experiencing precipitation, hinting at the complex interplay of weather phenomena affecting the peninsula.
Beyond dealing with the fine dust and weather changes, residents are urged to take precautions when travelling, particularly due to the potential for freezing drizzle to fall or for existing moisture to freeze on surfaces, which can significantly impact driving conditions.
This weather scenario emerges as South Korea navigates through its early spring transition, where daytime warmth contrasts sharply with night chills. The detailed forecasts include the expected temperature ranges across various regions: for example, Seoul is forecasted to hover around 14 degrees, Gwangju at 15 degrees, and Busan slightly cooler at 13 degrees. Meanwhile, Jeju will experience highs matching the national trend.
Bodies of water will experience moderate wave heights, estimated between 2 and 3 meters off the southern coasts, including Jeju, and considerable fog conditions will persist throughout the West Sea, aggravate navigational challenges.
Overall, March 10, 2025, is shaping up to be another day where health advisories persist alongside enjoying warmer spring-like weather. The dual challenges of managing high pollution levels and adapting to significant temperature fluctuations are central themes for the day. Citizens are advised to remain informed and proactive about their health, particularly concerning air quality measures and travel safety.