Severe weather conditions are gripping South Korea as the country braces for heavy rainfall and significant snowfall, prompting warnings from the Korean Meteorological Administration (KMA). On March 2, 2025, the KMA detailed expectations of intense weather patterns affecting vast regions, particularly the eastern provinces and mountainous areas, raising alarms for possible flooding and travel disruptions.
According to the KMA, snow accumulations could exceed 70 cm (28 inches) especially within the Gangwon mountain regions. The report also indicated, "Maximum snow accumulations of over 70 cm are expected, particularly impacting the Gangwon mountain regions," highlighting the severity of the conditions. The KMA noted the effects are largely due to the clash of warm air moving northward and cold air descending from the north, causing unstable atmospheric conditions across the inland region.
The agency forecasts rainfall amounts reaching up to 100 mm (3.94 inches) in susceptible areas, particularly the eastern coast and regions with high elevation, leading to increased risks of flooding and snow accumulation. On March 2, rain began to fall across the country with heavy precipitation predicted to last through the night. Starting late tonight, rain is expected to change to snow across many areas, creating hazardous conditions for travelers.
Weather advisories are particularly focused on coastal and mountainous regions, where winds could gust to as high as 70 km/h (43 mph) contributing to poor visibility and travel difficulties. Residents are urged to be cautious as the likelihood of black ice forming on roadways increases due to rapid temperature drops following the initial rain.
Across major cities including Seoul, authorities are monitoring conditions closely as part of their emergency preparedness measures. The areas around Seoul are expected to see 20 to 60 mm of rainfall, transitioning to snow, with accumulations ranging from 3 to 10 cm expected. The public has been advised to stay updated via KMA notifications and to prepare necessary emergency supplies.
Meteorologists are warning of particularly intense wintery conditions over the next several days, which could last for more than 72 hours, putting added strain on emergency services and infrastructure. Forecast models indicate the collision of opposing air masses will maintain the weather’s volatility.
The potential for substantial snowfall was likened to previous major snow events, with cautioning around the stability of structures and driving safety. Local emergency agencies are recommending residents secure loose outdoor items and avoid unnecessary travel during peak snowfall hours.
Overall, the KMA is recommending families check on local forecasts regularly as the situation develops, urging community engagement to share resources and support those at risk, particularly the elderly and vulnerable populations.
With conditions likely to worsen before they improve, the KMA encourages all residents to heed public safety measures, prepare adequately for flooding and significant snowfall, and maintain awareness of changing conditions.
Safety officials have emphasized the importance of having winter gear ready, including snow shovels and tire chains, along with food and water supplies as heavy snow could disrupt services both on roads and at airports temporarily leading to extended travel delays.
Residents can keep informed of the latest updates through local news outlets and the KMA of South Korea, which continues to assess and report on changing atmospheric phenomena as the chaos of winter weather settles across the land, potentially reshaping the lives of many during this severe weather event.