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Asia's Scorching Heat Wave: Record Temps Grip Region
6 Aug
Summary
- Record-breaking temperatures led to deaths and illnesses in Northeast Asia.
- South Korea reported over 2,220 heat-related illnesses and 19 deaths.
- Dog meat consumption was suggested in North Korea to combat heat.
Northeast Asia is grappling with a devastating heat wave, marked by record-breaking temperatures and severe impacts on public health and infrastructure. In South Korea, temperatures soared as high as 39 degrees Celsius (102.2 F) in Seoul, prompting a national disaster declaration. Since mid-May, the country has recorded approximately 2,220 heat-related illnesses and 19 deaths, with significant losses in livestock and farmed fish. The city of Yangsan registered an all-time high of 42.5 Celsius (108.5 F) on a recent Sunday.
North Korea has also issued heat wave advisories, with one doctor recommending dog meat consumption for stamina. This practice, known as 'dangogi,' is traditional during hot weather. Japan reported over 18,000 hospitalizations for heat stroke symptoms during one week in late July. In Kumamoto, a magnitude 7.1 earthquake on July 28 caused further devastation, with one fatality attributed to heat stroke while sheltering in a car. Tokyo's Tama Zoological Park reported the deaths of three lions due to heat-related dehydration and organ failure.
