Severe Snow And Strong Winds Hit South Korea

A powerful low-pressure system from the West Sea is unleashing heavy snow and rain across South Korea, leading the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) to issue multiple weather advisories. Starting on the night of March 17, 2025, the nation has been bracing for significant disruptions due to harsh winter weather conditions.

According to the KMA, heavy snow advisories are currently active nationwide, particularly affecting the Seoul metropolitan area, Gyeonggi Province, and parts of Gangwon Province. Forecasts indicate substantial snowfall, with areas around Seoul, Gyeonggi, and Chungcheong expecting between 3 to 10 centimeters of snow. Meanwhile, the mountainous regions of Gangwon are bracing for even heavier snowfall, with accumulations possibly reaching between 10 and 30 centimeters, and some particularly high areas could see totals exceeding 40 centimeters.

The expected conditions will not only contribute to hazardous travel but also threaten safety as strong winds accompany the snow. Wind gusts are expected to reach up to 70 kilometers per hour (about 43 miles per hour) along coastal areas, exacerbated by chilly air. The KMA warns, "Heavy snow advisories remain active nationwide, urging residents to prepare for possible disruptions due to severe weather conditions." This warning emphasizes the risks to personal safety and infrastructures, such as buildings and transportation networks.

The anticipated snowfall is expected to last throughout the day on March 18, with conditions predicted to ease by the evening. By the afternoon, the KMA anticipates the precipitation will taper off, particularly across the Seoul and western regions, though areas such as Jeju Island may still see precipitation continuing until the early hours of March 19.

Specific predictions for different regions include:

• Seoul, Gyeonggi, and Chungcheong: Expected to receive 3 to 10 cm of snow.


• Gangwon Province: Coastal and mountainous regions should prepare for 10 to 30 cm, with some local spots potentially receiving 40 cm.


• Daejeon and Sejong: Forecasted snow amount of 3 to 10 cm.


• North Jeolla: Areas may see 3 to 8 cm, with some locations expecting more than 15 cm.


• Busan: Anticipated overnight flurries could lead to snow accumulation of 1 to 5 cm.

Reports indicate snow accumulation is expected at rates of 3 to 5 cm per hour during the period of peak snowfall, leading to dangerous driving conditions. The KMA highlighted the importance of careful preparation: "Conditions will likely lead to road hazards and safety issues, so individuals are advised to remain cautious." Traffic authorities are advising residents to limit travel where possible, and to be alert for road conditions, especially on small roads or hills where ice may form.

For the morning of March 19, the KMA predicts morning temperatures will range from -4 to 3 degrees Celsius, with lower readings across the northern and eastern regions. Daytime temperatures will only slightly rise, reaching between 3 and 9 degrees Celsius, making it feel even colder with winds contributing to wind-chill factors.

The coastal waters are also expected to encounter challenges as waves generated by strong winds could reach heights of up to 4 meters. Mariners are advised to exercise caution and check on operational conditions before setting sail. Expectations for high waves and sudden weather changes mean all sea traffic needs to remain vigilant. The forecasted storms could culminate with significant disruptions to fishing operations.

With the weight of heavy snow on infrastructure, risks of damage to structures, especially those not built to cope with such conditions, are increasing. Residents are reminded to maintain their property and prepare for the possibility of snow and rain accumulating on rooftops or awnings, which could lead to collapses.

Looking beyond the current weather event, the KMA predicts clearer skies and warmer weather may settle across the country starting March 20, returning temperatures to seasonal averages. Still, until then, all South Koreans must prepare for the harsh weather and related dangers.

We end this report by stressing the need for residents to remain indoors if possible and to stay updated with the latest weather information as it develops. With these conditions, safety remains the top priority.