Scientists warn that extreme weather events such as heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense as a result of human-induced climate change
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South Korea issued its first-ever emergency heatwave alert on Sunday under a new warning system launched this year, advising people to halt outdoor activities and keep cool.
The new warning system was introduced to better deal with a rising number of heatwaves in South Korea, which have become longer and more intense, officials said.
An emergency alert is issued when areas experiencing a heatwave are forecast to hit perceived temperatures of 38°C or an actual temperature of 39°C for one day.
“The Korea Meteorological Administration issued an Emergency Heatwave Warning at 10am today for two cities in southern North Gyeongsang Province – Gyeongsan and Pohang,” said agency chief Lee Mi-seon at a press briefing.
“This marks the first time it has been issued since the system took effect,” she added.
The affected areas saw temperatures reach the emergency criteria over the weekend.