Korea Weather Update: Clear Skies & Strong Winds for Lunar New Year Return
- South Korea is experiencing a period of clearer skies as a high-pressure system settles over the peninsula, offering a welcome respite from typical late-winter haze.
- According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, skies across the country were expected to be mostly cloudy on February 16th, gradually clearing as the day progressed.
- A dry air mass originating from the Asian continent is responsible for the current conditions.
South Korea Enjoys Clear Skies Ahead of Lunar New Year, But Dry Winds Raise Concerns
South Korea is experiencing a period of clearer skies as a high-pressure system settles over the peninsula, offering a welcome respite from typical late-winter haze. The improved air quality comes just before the Lunar New Year holiday, but is accompanied by strong, dry winds that are raising concerns about fire risk and discomfort.
According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, skies across the country were expected to be mostly cloudy on February 16th, gradually clearing as the day progressed. This trend is expected to continue through the Lunar New Year period, offering favorable conditions for travel and outdoor activities. However, the same high-pressure system responsible for the clear skies is also bringing very dry air, particularly to the southern regions of the country.
A dry air mass originating from the Asian continent is responsible for the current conditions. These high-pressure systems lower humidity and help to disperse moisture and haze, resulting in colder temperatures felt on the skin but cleaner air. This contrasts sharply with the conditions typically seen in March and April, when yellow dust and fine dust episodes become more frequent due to winds carrying sand and pollutants from China and Mongolia.
Residents of Seoul are noting the unusual clarity of the air in February, with some observing that the clearest skies of the year often appear during this period of stillness. The city itself takes on a different character, appearing more defined and architectural under the crisp, clean light. Mountain ridges behind the skyline become visible in distinct layers, and details like street signs and building textures stand out more clearly.
As of today, , temperatures across much of the country are above freezing, with Seoul reporting a temperature of 7°C and Busan at 11.9°C. However, inland areas are experiencing significant temperature swings, with differences of up to 15°C between daytime highs and nighttime lows. This wide temperature range is expected to continue as the Lunar New Year holiday concludes and people return to work.
The Korea Meteorological Administration has issued a dry weather advisory for the Yeongnam region, warning of a heightened risk of fire due to the extremely dry conditions. Residents are urged to exercise caution with any potential ignition sources. Areas along the eastern coast of Gangwon Province and mountainous regions are experiencing slippery conditions due to recent snow and ice, requiring careful travel.
Air quality is expected to deteriorate in Chungcheong, Gwangju, and North Jeolla provinces during the day, with Yeongnam and Jeju Island potentially experiencing “poor” air quality levels in the afternoon. Despite these localized concerns, the overall forecast remains favorable for the remainder of the Lunar New Year holiday period.
Looking ahead, the clear skies are expected to persist through the weekend. However, rain is forecast to arrive in the central regions of the country on Sunday, potentially bringing an end to the current spell of dry, clear weather.