South Korea is preparing for significant rainfall over the first weekend of March 2025 as forecasts indicate heavy rainstorms sweeping across the nation. According to the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA), expected rainfall estimates suggest cumulative levels could reach up to 60 mm by the end of the weekend, particularly focusing on southern regions. This alert prompts local authorities to advise residents to carefully monitor conditions and prepare for potential disruptions.
On Saturday, March 1, 2025, the day began with reports of rain starting on Jeju Island and extending to the southern coastlines. By noon, precipitation is slated to increase across the nation, beginning primarily from the southwestern provinces before reaching central and northern areas later in the day. The KMA described the transition of weather systems as driven by nearby pressure systems influencing these heavy rains, primarily affecting regions like Jeju and the southern coastal areas.
Local officials are advising caution as low visibility conditions combine with wet roads, making travel hazardous. "We expect the rain to cause significant traffic disruptions, particularly during peak hours as conditions deteriorate," explained one KMA official. Motorists are urged to reduce their speed and increase following distances to avoid accidents. The predicted rainfall levels vary, with estimates indicating 5–20 mm for most urban centers.
Accompanying variables include cooler temperatures associated with the incoming cold front, which is lowering daytime highs to around 10-17 degrees Celsius, with overnight lows ranging from -2 to 7 degrees. This fluctuation in temperatures will likely contribute to slippery conditions on roads, especially as accumulated rainwater might freeze overnight.
East-Atlantic regions, particularly those experiencing higher altitudes such as the Gangwon Province, are especially susceptible to heavy snowfall. Reports indicate possible snow accumulation ranging from 20 to 50 cm over the weekend, which could lead to complications such as avalanches and obstructed roadways. "Residents should be aware of the potential for snow-induced hazards, and updates will be provided continually," KMA emphasizes.
The administration has also issued advisories concerning potential infrastructure impacts, especially for weak structures and transport services. "We cannot stress enough the importance of monitoring both weather updates and road conditions as heavy rains and subsequent freezes might create treacherous conditions,” local officials reiterated.
Along with the rain, there are additional alerts related to possible strong winds. According to local reports, the nation could experience gusts of wind reaching up to 70 km/h (about 43 mph), particularly affecting coastal areas. Sailing and other maritime activities are cautioned during this period, as rough waters and limited visibility are also forecasted to affect safety on the water.
Such weather predictions have prompted officials to encourage readiness for localized flooding, as heavy rainfall combined with snowmelt could also lead to water accumulation issues. Flash floods are seen as potential threats, particularly for areas with previous infrastructure issues or where snow is melting rapidly.
Daytime temperatures will vary significantly, leading to extensive fluctuation over the course of the weekend. The highest recorded maximum temperature across major cities such as Seoul and Busan may touch 17 degrees Celsius, significantly elevated from typical March averages, but accompany this warmth will be periods of rain and chilly winds.
Moving forward, the KMA will provide hourly updates about precipitation changes and warnings concerning severe weather events. Residents and local governments are advised to remain vigilant, with specific focus on emergency plans for travel and outdoor activities. "This weather transition requires us to be proactive, ensuring our communities are prepared for any eventuality," added the official.
By Monday, March 3, updated forecasts predict diminished rainfall as conditions stabilize, but the risk remains for periodic showers interspersed with potential wintry precipitation.
All eyes remain on the latest updates from the KMA as the rainy season approaches, emphasizing public safety and infrastructural integrity as weather dynamics shift across the region.