KIOST study links distant typhoons to South Korean heatwaves

A study by the Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology (KIOST) has revealed that typhoons passing far from the Korean Peninsula can indirectly trigger extreme heatwaves and heavy rainfall by altering atmospheric circulation.

Analyzing typhoons Mekkhala and Higos, which passed near Japan in late June without making landfall in South Korea, researchers found that these storms supplied warm, moist air that strengthened the monsoon front. While the typhoons initially pushed the North Pacific High eastward—temporarily lowering temperatures in early July—a phenomenon known as the ‘precipitation heating effect’ subsequently occurred. As typhoon-induced moisture condensed into heavy rain, massive amounts of heat were released into the atmosphere. This heat strengthened the North Pacific High, causing it to expand back toward the Korean Peninsula.

Data from 60 meteorological observation stations showed that while the national average temperature was 1.3°C below normal on July 1, it rose to 2.8°C above normal by July 7, marking a 4.1°C increase in just six days. KIOST officials noted that while this single case does not fully explain all heatwave causes, it demonstrates how distant typhoons can significantly impact regional climate patterns.