Unseasonable Snow Blankets South Korea As Spring Approaches

On an unseasonably wintry day in South Korea, March 19, 2025, heavy snow blanketed various parts of the country, impacting daily life and transportation. As of yesterday, March 18, the northeastern coast, particularly in Gangwon Province, had received nearly 60 centimeters of snow in Goseong, while Icheon in Gyeonggi Province and northern Seoul saw over 10 centimeters.

The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) issued heavy snow alerts across the eastern regions, including Gangwon and Gyeongbuk, as snow continues to fall. Forecasts indicate that tonight, an additional 20 centimeters or more of snow could accumulate in the mountainous regions of Gangwon, while northeastern Gyeongbuk might see up to 15 centimeters. Inland areas of Chungcheong Province are also slated for 1 to 5 centimeters of snow by tomorrow morning.

The morning of March 20 is expected to bring a sharp drop in temperatures, with Seoul going down to -2 degrees Celsius and Daejeon to -3 degrees, a full three degrees colder than today. The KMA warns that areas like Cheorwon and Bonghwa could fall below -5 degrees, leading to a distinctly chilly start for many.

However, these cold temperatures will soon give way to clearer skies. From dawn tomorrow, March 20, the KMA predicts nationwide clear weather, allowing temperatures in the central region to rise slightly, with Seoul reaching around 7 degrees Celsius and Daejeon reaching 9 degrees.

On the following day, March 21, a more significant warm-up is anticipated, with afternoon temperatures expected to exceed 15 degrees Celsius in many regions as spring approaches. The change in weather patterns brings the potential for a beautification of the landscape, especially for those engaging in outdoor activities.

Despite the dramatic weather changes, the public remains attentive to the effects of wind and icy conditions on roads. The expected strong winds accompanying the cold snap could make the perceived temperatures even lower, urging commuters to proceed with caution during the morning rush hour.

In Daejeon and Chungnam regions, snow or rain is expected until dawn today, following which skies will clear up. The latest report from KMA noted a risk of icy roads leading to accidents in compromised visibility areas.

Finer dust concentration remains at a normal level in most areas, as conditions improve with the clearer skies forecasted over the following days. However, travelers should still be mindful of road conditions as temperatures remain low.

The KMA reported that the expected minimum morning temperatures range from -7 to 2 degrees Celsius today, with average highs between 6 and 11 degrees. Regions in eastern Gyeonggi, inland Gangwon, and western Jeonbuk could be particularly chilly, dropping to around -5 degrees Celsius. Major city temperatures are expected to maintain a frigid outlook: Seoul at -2 degrees, Incheon at -1 degrees, Chuncheon at -4 degrees, Gangneung at -2 degrees, and Daejeon at -3 degrees.

By looking at upcoming weather patterns, the warmer temperatures and stable weather will be a welcome change for many as winter recedes, and spring shows signs of being right around the corner. The KMA continues to instruct that citizens dress warmly and prepare adequately for the cold snap as they venture outside.

In conclusion, the arrival of spring appears to be imminent, with fluctuations in weather still reminding us that winter hasn't entirely relinquished its grip just yet. Residents are encouraged to stay updated on weather changes while making plans to enjoy the clearer weather ahead.