Nationwide Rain Expected Starting April 22

As the nation braces for significant weather changes, the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) has issued a forecast predicting widespread rain starting from the night of April 21, 2025. The rain is expected to begin on Jeju Island and expand across the country, affecting the Seoul metropolitan area, Chungnam, Jeolla region, and the western part of Gyeongnam by the early morning of April 22.

On Tuesday, April 22, the weather will be predominantly cloudy with rain, as confirmed by the KMA. Rainfall is anticipated to intensify throughout the day, with the heaviest precipitation expected in southern regions. The rain will begin to taper off in the evening, particularly in the western areas, and will mostly cease by nightfall.

The expected rainfall amounts vary significantly across regions. In the Seoul metropolitan area, Incheon, and the five West Sea islands, precipitation is forecasted to be between 10 to 40 mm. Gangwon Province may see between 10 to 50 mm, while areas in Gwangju, Jeonnam, Busan, Ulsan, and northern Jeju Island could receive 20 to 60 mm, with certain locations in the southern coast and Jirisan foothills possibly exceeding 80 mm. Notably, Jeju Island might experience intense rainfall rates of 20 to 30 mm per hour.

Morning temperatures on April 22 are projected to be 11 to 17 degrees Celsius, which is 2 to 6 degrees higher than the seasonal average. The afternoon highs are expected to range from 15 to 21 degrees Celsius, aligning closely with typical temperatures for this time of year.

As the rain sweeps through the nation, strong winds are also anticipated, particularly along the Jeonnam coast, southern Gyeongbuk coastal areas, Gyeongnam, and Jeju Island. The KMA has indicated that a strong wind advisory may be issued as wind speeds could exceed 70 km/h (20 m/s) in some areas, especially mountainous regions where gusts could reach over 90 km/h (25 m/s).

Wave heights are expected to be significant, with the East Sea and South Sea experiencing waves of 0.5 to 3.5 meters, while the West Sea will see heights of 0.5 to 2.0 meters. In the inner seas, wave heights could range from 1.0 to 4.0 meters, raising concerns about maritime safety.

In terms of air quality, the KMA reports that fine dust levels are expected to remain at 'good' levels due to favorable atmospheric dispersion conditions and the incoming rainfall, providing a brief respite from pollution.

As the rain begins to fall, motorists and pedestrians are advised to exercise caution. Visibility may be reduced in areas experiencing rainfall, particularly in regions prone to fog. The KMA warns that fog could be dense, especially in coastal areas and near bridges, with visibility dropping below 1 km.

The forecast also predicts the potential for thunderstorms and lightning in southern regions, particularly in Jeju Island, where the combination of rain and strong winds could lead to hazardous conditions.

Looking ahead, the weather is expected to clear up by April 24 and 25, with mostly sunny skies across the nation. Morning temperatures on these days will range from 8 to 12 degrees, while afternoon highs are forecasted to reach between 16 and 26 degrees.

In conclusion, as April 22 approaches, residents across South Korea should prepare for a day of rain, strong winds, and potential hazards, particularly in coastal and mountainous areas. The KMA will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary, ensuring the safety and well-being of the public.