South Korea Declares Heatwave a National Disaster Amid Airport Disruptions

POLICY WIRE — Seoul, South Korea — South Korean President has declared the ongoing extreme heat a “national disaster” and ordered all agencies to mobilize resources to combat the crisis. The heatwave, one of the most severe in the nation’s history, has prompted urgent public safety measures, including drone warnings and sheltering in airports.

Temperatures have soared to record highs, surpassing 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in several regions. The government has issued emergency alerts, urging citizens to take precautions against heat-related illnesses.

Airports across the country have reported operational disruptions due to the extreme conditions. Authorities have implemented drone warnings to ensure safety and have advised travelers to seek shelter in designated areas within airport terminals.

The Ministry of Health and Welfare has activated emergency response teams to provide medical assistance and distribute water and cooling supplies to affected areas. Schools and public facilities have been advised to close early to protect vulnerable populations, including the elderly and children.

Meteorological agencies predict that the heatwave will persist for the next several days, with no immediate relief in sight. The government continues to monitor the situation closely — and is prepared to deploy additional resources as needed.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)