Today : Jan 30, 2025
29 January 2025

Severe Snowfall And Frigid Temperatures Hit South Korea

Heavy precipitation leads to hazardous travel conditions and numerous weather warnings nationwide.

Today, January 29, 2025, South Korea is grappling with severe winter weather as heavy snowfall and plunging temperatures sweep across the nation. According to the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA), widespread snow and freezing conditions have prompted multiple weather alerts, particularly for the central and southern regions of the country. The KMA has declared heavy snowfall warnings for areas such as Chungcheong and Jeolla provinces, where snowfall could reach 10 centimeters or more.

The KMA reported at 4 AM today, "Heavy snowfall is expected throughout the day, especially from the early morning until noon, with accumulations of 3 to 10 centimeters anticipated across various regions." The snowy weather is accompanied by chilling temperatures, which are forecasted to drop below -10 degrees Celsius at times, significantly affecting daily life and travel.

Regions such as Jeolla are experiencing accumulations of 5 to 10 centimeters of snow, with some areas expected to see localized snowfall of up to 15 centimeters. Meanwhile, the capital region, including Seoul, is facing the possibility of minor snowfall, with expectations of temperatures hovering around -6 to -4 degrees Celsius.

Road conditions have rapidly deteriorated as the temperature drops, turning fresh snow to ice on highways, prompting advisories from local authorities. The western coastal areas have reported especially bad conditions, with black ice leading to hazardous driving situations on major roads such as the Seohae Expressway. Reports indicate difficulties with traffic flow due to icy patches, which has heightened the risk of accidents.

At 7 AM, key major cities such as Daejeon recorded temperatures as low as -6 degrees, with Busan slightly warmer at around -1 degree. The forecast warns of continued low temperatures, with some areas of Gangwon and northern Gyeonggi experiencing extreme lows of -12 degrees Celsius and colder by tonight. The harsh winter conditions extend across the country, with heavy winds also contributing to the chill, effectively lowering the perceived temperature.

"The wind chill will make it feel even colder than it actually is, with some areas feeling as cold as -15 degrees due to the wind," explained KMA meteorologist. Wind gusts have been reported at speeds exceeding 70 kilometers per hour, particularly along the coasts and higher elevations.

Travelers, particularly those returning home for the Lunar New Year, are advised to check the latest weather updates and adjust their travel plans accordingly. With snow predicted to continue falling through the day, the KMA has warned of potential flight delays and disruptions, particularly for airlines operating out of affected airports.

Accidents on roads have already been reported, raising concerns as families prepare for the holiday travels. Local government officials urge residents to exercise extreme caution, particularly when driving or walking on untreated pavements which are likely to be icy.

Areas under special watch include the Chungcheong and Jeolla provinces where snowfall rates could reach up to 3 centimeters per hour early today. The KMA stressed residents should prepare for poor visibility and icy conditions, advising to keep emergency kits in vehicles.

Looking forward, the weather is expected to remain cold with chances of additional snowfall over the next few days. Residents across South Korea are encouraged to stay updated via weather bulletins and practice safety will engaging with the conditions. With temperatures predicted to significantly drop through February 1, residents are bracing for what could be the coldest days of the season.