The Ministry of the Interior and Safety in South Korea announced on Wednesday that it has raised the heat warning to its highest level for the first time in four years, as temperatures in parts of the country have exceeded 38 degrees Celsius. A official from the National Fire Agency reported that "estimates indicate that the extreme heat has caused at least 22 fatalities across the country as of Tuesday, which is more than three times the record number during the same period last year, which was seven deaths."
The highest level warning, "dangerous," is issued when the apparent temperature is expected to reach 35 degrees Celsius or higher in at least 40% of the 180 regions of the country for three days or more. It can also be issued when there is a likelihood that the apparent temperature will be 38 degrees Celsius or higher for three days or more in 10% of the regions.
South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol urged officials on Tuesday to intensify measures to prevent further casualties, especially among those working outdoors, the elderly, and those living in temporary housing without adequate air conditioning systems. Near Yoon's office, construction workers held a press conference on Wednesday, calling for concrete measures to be taken.
