Tibetan High Expands... Record-Breaking Heatwave Likely to Continue

Heavy Rain Expected if the North Pacific High Contracts

Record-breaking heatwaves are expected to continue through the weekend.

Heatwave Continuation Scenario. Provided by the Korea Meteorological Administration

According to the Korea Meteorological Administration on July 24, the average daily temperature from June 1 to July 22 was 24.4 degrees Celsius, ranking first for the same period since 1973, when the nationwide meteorological observation network was expanded. The average daily maximum temperature was also 29.4 degrees Celsius, the highest on record. The number of heatwave days (days with a daily maximum temperature of 33 degrees Celsius or higher) was 9.5, the second highest ever recorded.

This heatwave began as the hot and humid North Pacific High covered Korea. As the hot and dry Tibetan High gradually expands over the country, the heat is expected to intensify further.

When both the North Pacific High and the Tibetan High simultaneously cover Korea, heat accumulates without escaping, resulting in extreme heatwaves.

In the latter half of next week, if the North Pacific High maintains its strength, the cold air from the north will be blocked by the high pressure, causing the heatwave to persist. On the other hand, if the North Pacific High fails to maintain its strength, heavy rain is expected.

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