Across South Korea, residents brace for severe weather as the nation is set to experience heavy rainfall and significant snowfall starting from tomorrow, marking the start of the long holiday weekend. The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) has issued warnings, advising people to prepare for harsh weather conditions throughout the region.
Forecasters predict up to 100 mm of rain can fall from tomorrow through the weekend, particularly affecting the eastern regions and Jeju Island. This will be accompanied by heavy snowfall, especially as temperatures are expected to drop and rain turns to snow late tomorrow evening. Areas such as Gangwon-do are forecasted to see snow accumulation exceeding 70 cm, with the potential for up to 20 cm expected within the Seoul metropolitan area.
The anticipated weather system will bring rain starting from tomorrow afternoon, with the heaviest precipitation occurring tomorrow night. The reports specify, " rainfall amounts could reach between 20 to 80 mm for most inland areas, with strong winds expected, including gusts of up to 15 m/s across the nation. This will result not only in challenging travel conditions but also pose risks such as flooding and road hazards due to ice and heavy snowfall."
Residents are advised to stay updated on weather forecasts and prepare accordingly, especially those living along the eastern coast and mountainous regions where heavy snowfalls could lead to road blockages and dangerous conditions. The KMA has elevated the weather alert level to 'caution' based on the expected impact of the incoming system and the high risk to public safety.
While tomorrow’s temperatures are relatively mild, ranging from 6°C in Seoul to 17°C in Gwangju, the drop expected Monday could leave many unprepared for the drastic temperature shift. The transition from rain to snow is scheduled to begin around midnight as colder air moves down from the north. This change is likely to bring about dangers of icy roads, especially during the transition, prompting calls for citizens to act with caution.
"We urge everyone to avoid unnecessary travel and take precautions to protect themselves from the severe weather expected this weekend," said KMA meteorologist Kim Da-young during this morning’s briefing. "The impact on travel could be extensive, and it is always best to be prepared for the worst."
Officials have begun mobilizing emergency resources, ready to respond to any situations arising from the storm. The Public Safety and Security Ministry is coordinating with local governments to monitor conditions and provide support where needed. Alerts have been disseminated across various platforms to alert communities and encourage readiness for the storms.
The warning extends to maritime zones, where high waves and strong winds may pose risks to vessels. The KMA has advised mariners and those planning to engage with maritime activities to remain on alert and heed any port advisories.
To mitigate possible scenarios of isolation due to heavy snowfall, communities should monitor local conditions and responses. The types of weather expected are not only disruptive but can lead to complications for those living alone or within snow-affected regions.
Forecasters anticipate the storm will linger through Wednesday, with snow expected to continue to accumulate across Gangwon-do long after the peak of the initial storm has passed, indicating prolonged hazardous conditions. Travel plans should be re-evaluated accordingly, with many flights and services likely impacted.
Through this extended period of harsh weather, the importance of preparedness cannot be overstated. Residents are encouraged to have necessary supplies such as food, water, and heating provisions available as the storm progresses.
Looking at the week to come, temperatures on Monday are expected to drop significantly, with early morning lows nearing freezing, impacting many outside of the central urban areas. The information indicates prolonged caution as weather conditions begin to stabilize, but officials will remain vigilant for any secondary effects of the storm. While the weather has its variances, one prevailing theme remains: South Korea must brace itself for potentially impactful weather as this storm system prepares to frontally hit.
Safety officials recommend vehicle checks to prepare for icy conditions, highlighting the importance of traction and winter-ready supplies to weather the storm effectively. They also stress the need for community cooperation and individual responsibility during such weather events to protect lives and property.
With the passing of this storm, hope is expressed for a return to normalcy soon, but until then, South Koreans are urged to stay informed and remain safe. Adapting to rapidly changing weather remains the key, as omens of spring also bring unexpected extremes.