Nationwide Rainstorm Expected As Temperatures Drop

As the warm weather of today gives way to a more turbulent forecast, South Korea is bracing for a nationwide rainstorm on May 9, 2025, bringing cooler temperatures and heavy precipitation.

According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, rain will begin in the early morning hours in the Chungcheong and southern regions, gradually spreading across the country by afternoon. This weather shift marks a stark contrast to the mild temperatures experienced earlier.

Particularly affected will be Jeju Island and the southern coast, where forecasts predict intense rainfall ranging from 30 to 50 millimeters per hour. In Jeju’s mountainous areas, over 200 millimeters of rain is expected, while southern Jeonnam and the vicinity of Jirisan may see upwards of 80 millimeters. The metropolitan area, along with Chungcheong and southern inland regions, can anticipate between 10 to 40 millimeters of rain.

In addition to the rain, strong winds are also on the horizon. Coastal areas, mountainous regions, and Jeju Island will experience wind speeds exceeding 20 meters per second. The sea conditions are expected to be particularly treacherous, with wave heights reaching between 4 to 5.5 meters.

As the rain and wind roll in, temperatures will drop significantly. The morning low on May 9 is expected to be around 15 degrees Celsius in Seoul and Jeonju, while the afternoon high will only reach 16 degrees Celsius in Seoul and 18 degrees Celsius in Daegu.

The storm is anticipated to continue affecting the central region and Jeonbuk area until Friday, May 10, 2025, with rain expected to persist.

Jeju Island, in particular, is preparing for a deluge. The Jeju Regional Meteorological Administration has warned that from early morning until late afternoon, heavy rain accompanied by thunder and lightning could lead to heavy rain warnings being issued. Rainfall rates in most areas, excluding the northern and Chuja Island, are predicted to be between 30 to 50 millimeters per hour.

"We advise residents to take precautions against strong winds and possible lightning strikes," a meteorological official stated, emphasizing the need for safety measures.

In terms of temperature, Jeju will see a morning low of around 17 degrees Celsius, with afternoon highs expected to range from 19 to 23 degrees Celsius. On May 10, temperatures will further drop, with morning lows expected between 13 and 14 degrees Celsius and afternoon highs between 17 and 21 degrees Celsius.

As rain begins to fall across the nation, the weather forecast indicates that conditions will remain mostly cloudy on May 9. Rain will start in Jeolla and Gyeongnam, and by the afternoon, the majority of the country will be under cloudy skies with intermittent rain.

Forecasts predict that from May 9 to May 10, rainfall amounts will vary across the country. In Seoul, Incheon, Gyeonggi, and the West Sea 5 islands, 10 to 40 millimeters of rain is expected. Meanwhile, Daejeon, Sejong, Chungnam, and Chungbuk will also see similar amounts. The islands of Ulleungdo and Dokdo are expected to receive 5 to 20 millimeters.

In terms of air quality, the combination of rain and good atmospheric circulation is expected to keep fine dust levels low, resulting in 'good' air quality across the nation.

Winds are also a concern, particularly in the western coastal and inland areas of Gyeonggi, where gusts could reach speeds of up to 55 kilometers per hour. The sea will be rough, with wave heights in the East Sea ranging from 0.5 to 3.5 meters, while the West and South Seas will see waves of 0.5 to 3.0 meters. In open waters, the height could reach 1.0 to 4.0 meters in the East and West Seas, and 1.5 to 5.0 meters in the South Sea.

The detailed weather forecast for May 9 shows that cities across the country will experience cloudy conditions with rain. In Seoul, the temperatures will hover between 15 to 16 degrees Celsius, while Incheon will see similar conditions at 14 to 16 degrees Celsius. Other cities like Suwon, Chuncheon, Gangneung, Cheongju, Daejeon, and Gwangju will also experience cloudy skies with rain, with temperatures ranging from 12 to 20 degrees Celsius.

As South Korea prepares for a shift in weather, officials and residents alike are reminded to stay alert and take necessary precautions against the impending storm. With heavy rain, strong winds, and cooler temperatures on the way, safety should be the top priority.