Seoul Heatwave Crisis: 19 Dead and Thousands Hospitalised Amid Soaring Temperatures

Seoul: At least 19 people have died from heat-related illnesses in South Korea so far this year, as the country grapples with one of its most intense and prolonged heatwaves in recent history, officials confirmed on Sunday.

According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), over 3,100 people have sought emergency care for heat-related conditions since mid-May, when the government launched its national heat illness surveillance system. Alarmingly, both the number of cases and fatalities have more than doubled compared to the same period last year.

The majority of reported cases were due to heat exhaustion (61.3%), followed by heat stroke (16.2%) and heat cramps (12.8%). The elderly population has been particularly vulnerable, with citizens aged 65 and above accounting for nearly 32% of the total cases. Experts warn that older adults are more susceptible due to reduced thermoregulation and underlying health issues.

The heatwave has also pushed the country’s electricity consumption to record highs, mainly due to a surge in air conditioner use. According to the Korea Power Exchange, the average peak power demand in July reached 85 gigawatts, a 5.6% increase from last year, marking the highest figure recorded for July since 1993. Officials say the previous monthly record was in August 2024, when demand peaked at 87.8 GW.

The Korea Meteorological Administration revealed that July saw 15 days with maximum temperatures above 33°C, compared to the 53-year average of just 3.4 days. Furthermore, “tropical nights”—when night temperatures remain above 25°C—persisted for 23 days, the longest stretch since 1973.

With peak demand expected to rise to 97.8 GW in the second week of August, authorities are maintaining a 10 GW power reserve to ensure energy stability.

Health officials urge citizens to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities, and check on vulnerable individuals, especially seniors and children, during the ongoing heat emergency.