Heatwave Warning Level Raised to 'Severe'... "Avoid Outdoor Activities During Daytime"

On the afternoon of the 1st, when the highest daytime temperature in the Seoul area recorded 35 to 36 degrees Celsius, children are enjoying water play at the fountain in Gwanghwamun Square, Jongno-gu, Seoul. Photo by Jo Yongjun jun21@

The Ministry of the Interior and Safety activated Level 1 of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters (CDSCH) at 6 p.m. on the 1st in preparation for the heatwave situation.

The heatwave crisis alert level was also raised to the highest 'Severe' stage. Earlier, the Ministry had issued a heatwave crisis alert at the 'Warning' level on July 1st, but due to the rapid rise in temperature, the CDSCH was activated.

The CDSCH instructed relevant ministries and local governments to strengthen heatwave countermeasures in their respective areas, including ▲ management measures for the three major vulnerable groups to heatwaves: socially vulnerable groups, outdoor workers at construction sites, and elderly farmers ▲ damage prevention measures for agriculture, livestock, and fisheries ▲ infrastructure management measures for roads, railways, and other facilities.

In particular, since casualties continue to occur mainly among elderly agricultural workers, it emphasized the need for vigilance and monitoring activities, and urged local governments to mobilize contingency funds and disaster management funds.

Lee Sang-min, head of the CDSCH (Minister of the Interior and Safety), said, "All agencies, including local governments, should go beyond the current level of heatwave response and focus on managing vulnerable groups and facilities," and added, "We ask the public to refrain from outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day as much as possible, stay well hydrated, and prioritize their health by following the public action guidelines."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.