South Korea Braces for Unseasonably Warm Weather, Significant Temperature Swings, and Air Quality Concerns
South Korea is experiencing a taste of early spring with temperatures expected to reach as high as 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit) on Saturday, February 21st, 2026. However, this pleasant warmth will be accompanied by a substantial diurnal temperature range and concerns about air quality, particularly in certain regions. The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) forecasts a clear day nationwide, but cautions residents to prepare for significant differences between daytime highs and nighttime lows.
The unseasonably mild conditions are a notable shift from recent colder temperatures, but the KMA warns that this warmth is temporary. The large temperature swing – potentially exceeding 15°C (27°F) in many areas – poses health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations. The combination of warmer days and still-cold nights can strain the body’s ability to regulate temperature, increasing the risk of respiratory issues and cardiovascular problems. It’s crucial for residents to dress in layers and stay informed about the latest weather updates.
Temperature Forecast and Regional Variations
The KMA predicts morning low temperatures ranging from -4°C (25°F) to 7°C (45°F) across the country. Daytime highs are expected to climb to between 12°C (54°F) and 20°C (68°F). The temperature variation will be particularly pronounced inland. The warmer temperatures are also raising concerns about the potential for ice to melt on rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and streams, creating hazardous conditions. Authorities are urging caution near bodies of water, warning that the ice may be thinner and more prone to breaking than it appears.
Here’s a breakdown of the expected temperature range for major cities across South Korea:
- Seoul: 5°C to 17°C (41°F to 63°F)
- Incheon: 6°C to 12°C (43°F to 54°F)
- Suwon: 4°C to 17°C (39°F to 63°F)
- Seongnam: 4°C to 17°C (39°F to 63°F)
- Yongin: 3°C to 17°C (37°F to 63°F)
- Hanam: 3°C to 18°C (37°F to 64°F)
- Goyang: 4°C to 17°C (39°F to 63°F)
- Namyangju: 0°C to 17°C (32°F to 63°F)
- 김포 (Gimpo): 4°C to 15°C (39°F to 59°F)
- Bucheon: 6°C to 16°C (43°F to 61°F)
- Jeju: 7°C to 19°C (45°F to 66°F)
- Busan: 7°C to 16°C (45°F to 61°F)
- Ulsan: 2°C to 18°C (36°F to 64°F)
- Daegu: 1°C to 18°C (34°F to 64°F)
- Gumi: -2°C to 19°C (28°F to 66°F)
- Gwangju: 4°C to 18°C (39°F to 64°F)
- Chuncheon: -1°C to 16°C (30°F to 61°F)
- Daejeon: 3°C to 19°C (37°F to 66°F)
- Cheonan: 2°C to 18°C (36°F to 64°F)
Strong Winds and Air Quality Concerns
In addition to the temperature fluctuations, strong winds are expected to develop along coastal areas and in the mountainous regions of Gangwon Province and North Gyeongsang Province during the afternoon. The KMA anticipates wind gusts reaching up to 70 km/h (43 mph), with even stronger gusts of up to 90 km/h (56 mph) in mountainous areas. These conditions could lead to the issuance of strong wind advisories. The KMA urges residents to secure outdoor objects, such as signage and greenhouses, and to exercise caution when traveling, as falling debris and downed trees pose a potential hazard.
Air quality is also a concern. The KMA reports that air quality in the Seoul metropolitan area, Gangwon Province, and North Chungcheong Province is forecast to be “poor” (나쁨), while the rest of the country is expected to experience “moderate” (보통) air quality. Individuals with respiratory conditions are advised to take precautions, such as wearing masks and limiting outdoor activities.
The KMA emphasizes the importance of staying informed about the latest weather updates and following safety guidelines. They advise residents to check for potential hazards, such as loose objects and weakened structures, and to be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions. The agency also reminds the public to exercise caution near bodies of water, as the melting ice poses a significant risk.
The KMA will continue to monitor the weather situation closely and provide updates as needed. Residents are encouraged to stay tuned to official weather forecasts and advisories.
As the weekend progresses, the KMA will be closely monitoring the development of any further weather systems that could impact the Korean peninsula. The next official weather update is scheduled for Sunday, February 22nd, at 6:30 AM KST. We encourage our readers to share their experiences with the changing weather conditions and to remain vigilant about safety precautions.
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