Yangsan hits 40.3°C for two days, Busan faces historic heat: time to rethink heat-illness rules
Numbers in heat-wave coverage pass quickly, but two consecutive days above 40°C are a signal that daily standards must change. In humid regions such as Busan and South Gyeongsang, the same temperature can feel even more severe. With heat-related deaths rising, this heat wave is not something to endure until it passes; it is a safety issue that requires changes to schedules and work methods.
Key summary
- KBS and other outlets reported that Yangsan in South Gyeongsang recorded 40.3°C for two straight days.
- Busan also experienced heat near its highest long-term observation levels, with severe heat expected to continue in the Busan-Ulsan-Gyeongnam area.
- Reports said cumulative heat-related deaths rose to 12, making outdoor activity and work-hour adjustments more important.
Confirmed facts
- KBS reported that Yangsan recorded 40.3°C for two consecutive days and that extreme heat continued in South Gyeongsang.
- Yonhap reported that record heat continued in the Busan-Ulsan-Gyeongnam area and that harsh heat was expected through the last day of July.
- Dong-A Ilbo and others covered the rise in this year’s heat-related deaths to 12.
- Heat damage must be assessed together with nighttime heat, humidity and work intensity, not only daytime temperature.
Why extreme heat should be treated as safety, not just weather
When temperatures approach 40°C, drinking more water may not be enough. Older adults, people with chronic conditions, outdoor workers, delivery workers, construction workers and farm workers can lose temperature control in a short time. Families and workplaces should set stopping rules, shaded or cooled breaks, and emergency contact procedures in advance instead of assuming people will be fine.
| Situation | Risk sign | Action standard |
|---|---|---|
| Outdoor work | Dizziness, headache, muscle cramps | Move to shade immediately and stop work |
| Older adults or patients | Slower speech or reduced alertness | Do not leave the person alone; check temperature and hydration |
| Travel and waiting | Staying in hot bus stops or parking lots | Reduce daytime travel and use cooled waiting spaces |
| Tropical nights | Poor sleep and accumulated fatigue | Lower the next day’s outdoor schedule and exercise intensity |
What to watch next
- If heat alerts continue, check whether cooling shelters and welfare checks for vulnerable people actually function.
- At outdoor workplaces such as construction, farming and delivery, the key is whether stop-work rules are applied on site.
- Heat-illness statistics may be reflected with a delay, so deaths and severe cases need continued monitoring.
- Even if typhoon or rain forecasts appear, high humidity may keep the perceived heat from easing quickly.
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