Sun Jan 18 11:50:00 UTC 2026: # Korea Braces for Longest Cold Snap of Winter

The Story:
South Korea is preparing for an extended period of extreme cold, starting January 20th, which coincides with the Daehan period on the traditional calendar. The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) forecasts a six-day stretch of sub-zero temperatures, particularly inland, with lows reaching -15 degrees Celsius. Authorities are urging citizens to take precautions against frozen water pipes and to protect their health during this period of intense cold.

Key Points:

  • A significant temperature drop is expected starting January 19th, with a 10-degree Celsius decrease overnight.
  • From January 20th, the entire country will experience morning lows between -17 and -3 degrees Celsius, and daytime highs between -4 and 6 degrees Celsius.
  • The cold snap is attributed to a shift in atmospheric pressure, changing from a “south high, north low” pattern to a “west high, east low” pattern, bringing cold northern winds.
  • Seoul is expected to experience six consecutive days below -10 degrees Celsius, with a wind chill factor making it feel as cold as -21 degrees Celsius on January 21st.
  • The extended duration of the cold is due to a “blocking” phenomenon, preventing arctic air from escaping eastward, trapping it over the Korean Peninsula.
  • Strong winds will exacerbate the cold, and the west coast of Jeolla province is expected to receive heavy snowfall due to the temperature difference between the cold air and the relatively warmer Yellow Sea.

Key Takeaways:

  • South Korea is facing a more prolonged and intense cold wave compared to previous brief cold spells earlier in the winter.
  • The unusual atmospheric blocking pattern is the primary driver of the sustained cold.
  • The public is advised to prepare for potentially hazardous conditions, including frozen pipes and health risks associated with extreme cold.

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