South Korea Faces Widespread Rain And Heat On Monday

Monday, June 16, 2025, is shaping up to be a wet and unsettled day across South Korea, with rain expected to blanket most parts of the country. According to the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA), this widespread rainfall will be accompanied in some areas by strong winds, thunder, and lightning, creating potentially hazardous conditions for residents and travelers alike.

The KMA issued its forecast on June 15, emphasizing that rain will start overnight on June 15 and continue through much of June 16. In the central regions, Gyeongsang Province, and Jeju Island, precipitation is expected to persist into the afternoon, while other areas will see rain taper off by midday.

Heavy downpours are a particular concern in several regions. The KMA predicts that some areas will experience very intense rainfall rates of up to 30 millimeters per hour, especially from late night on June 15 through the morning of June 16. These heavy bursts are expected primarily in the central parts of the country, the southern coastal areas, and Jeju Island.

Rainfall totals over the two-day period from June 15 to June 16 vary by region. The Seoul metropolitan area, including Incheon and Gyeonggi Province, along with the West Sea five islands and inland mountainous areas of Gangwon Province, are forecast to receive between 20 and 60 millimeters of rain. Northern Incheon and northern Gyeonggi, as well as parts of the southern Jeolla Province coastline, could see amounts exceeding 80 millimeters.

Further south, Chungcheong Province is expected to receive between 10 and 60 millimeters, while Jeolla Province is forecast for 10 to 60 millimeters, with some southern coastal areas possibly receiving up to 80 millimeters. Gyeongsang Province's southern coastal areas face even heavier rain, with totals between 30 and 80 millimeters and some spots surpassing 100 millimeters. The inland parts of Gyeongsang will see 20 to 60 millimeters, and Daegu and North Gyeongsang Province are expected to get between 10 and 50 millimeters.

Jeju Island, excluding its northern part, is forecast to receive between 30 and 80 millimeters of rain, with mountainous regions potentially seeing as much as 150 millimeters. The northern section of Jeju Island will likely get 10 to 40 millimeters.

Alongside the rain, strong winds are anticipated, especially in coastal and mountainous areas. The KMA warns of instantaneous gusts reaching up to 55 kilometers per hour (about 15 meters per second) during the early morning hours, particularly along the West Sea coast and in Gangwon Province. Jeju Island's mid-mountain and mountainous regions may also be under a strong wind advisory. These gusts, combined with heavy rain, raise concerns about potential damage and safety risks.

Marine conditions are expected to be rough as well. Wave heights in the coastal seas of the East, West, and South Seas are forecast to range from 0.5 to 2.0 meters. Further offshore, wave heights could reach between 1.0 and 3.5 meters in the East and South Seas and between 0.5 and 2.5 meters in the West Sea. Currently, a high wave advisory is active for the southern and southeastern distant waters off Jeju Island.

Temperatures on June 16 will be warm, with morning lows ranging from 19 to 23 degrees Celsius nationwide and daytime highs climbing between 24 and 31 degrees Celsius. Inland areas are expected to experience the hottest conditions, with daytime temperatures hovering around 30 degrees Celsius. Some regions could feel even hotter, with the peak sensible temperature exceeding 31 degrees Celsius, prompting health officials to advise residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses amid the damp conditions.

Despite the rain and heat, air quality is expected to be decent, with fine dust levels predicted to remain in the 'good' to 'normal' range nationwide.

Regionally, the weather will vary throughout the day. Seoul and Incheon will see rain with occasional breaks, with temperatures ranging from 19 to 27 degrees Celsius. Suwon and Chuncheon will experience intermittent rain, with highs near 28 degrees. Gangneung and Gwangju are expected to have rain in the morning, clearing to sunny skies by afternoon, with temperatures around 29 and 28 degrees respectively. Daegu and Busan will have cloudy skies with occasional rain, and temperatures ranging from 22 to 30 degrees in Daegu and 21 to 26 in Busan. Jeju Island will experience rain in the morning, clearing later, with temperatures between 21 and 28 degrees.

The KMA has issued warnings for landslides, soil erosion, and flooding in low-lying areas, especially in the southern provinces and Jeju Island, where heavy rainfall may cause additional damage. Residents are urged to stay alert and follow safety guidance, particularly in areas prone to flooding or landslides.

Thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds could accompany the rain or showers in some regions, increasing the risk of accidents and damage to infrastructure. The KMA advises caution with facility management and personal safety during these conditions.

Overall, the weather pattern reflects a mix of summer heat and seasonal monsoon rains, typical for this time of year in South Korea. The combination of warmth and moisture creates a humid atmosphere, which can be uncomfortable but also essential for the region's agriculture and water supply.

As the rain continues into the afternoon in some parts and tapers off elsewhere, residents should prepare for a damp day with variable conditions. Whether planning commutes, outdoor activities, or travel, keeping an eye on updated forecasts and advisories will be crucial to navigating the day's weather safely.

With the KMA's warnings and detailed forecasts, the public is better equipped to handle the challenging weather expected on June 16, 2025. From the bustling streets of Seoul to the scenic coasts of Jeju, the country braces for a day of showers, thunder, and occasional sunshine amid rising temperatures.