South Korea has experienced a record breaking July heatwave, with the capital, Seoul, enduring 22 “tropical nights.” This marks the highest number of such nights in a single month since modern records began 117 years ago. A tropical night is officially defined as a night where the temperature remains above 25°C.
The previous record for July was 21 tropical nights, set back in 1994. With only one day left in the month, the total could still increase. One night’s minimum temperature of 29.3°C is also set to become the highest daily low ever recorded for July.
The extreme heat has affected the entire country, with daytime temperatures in some areas surpassing 40°C. Health officials have confirmed that at least 16 people have died from heat-related illnesses so far this year.
This phenomenon is being attributed to a high-pressure system trapping heat over the country, combined with hot, humid air from the south. The weather agency has forecast that these tropical nights will continue for the foreseeable future, despite some rain being expected in early August.
