South Korea issues first extreme‑heat warning for Gyeongsan and Pohang

On July 12, South Korea activated the newly created "폭염중대경보" (extreme‑heat warning) for the cities of Gyeongsan and Pohang in North Gyeongsang Province. The alert is issued when the daily heat index exceeds 38 °C (or the maximum temperature reaches 39 °C) after two consecutive days of extreme heat. Forecasts predicted temperatures above 38 °C for the coming day, prompting immediate safety measures.

Authorities urged residents to stop outdoor work and events, move to cool shelters, stay hydrated and check on vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, pregnant women and people with chronic illnesses. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency reported 535 heat‑related illness cases and two estimated deaths as of July 10, noting that a heat index of 38 °C raises overall mortality risk by 19 % for those over 65. Nationwide, more than 90 % of regions are under heat advisories, with daytime highs reaching 39‑40 °C and tropical night conditions keeping overnight temperatures above 25 °C. Rainfall is expected later in the week, but high humidity will likely sustain the heat wave into mid‑July.