Record Snowfall in Seoul

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, witnessed one of the most intense snowfalls in the last 100 years, significantly affecting daily life in the city and the surrounding region.

Overview of Events:

At the beginning of the week, from November 26 to 27, 2024, Seoul was hit by heavy snowfall. According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, 18 cm of snow fell overnight from November 26 to 27, significantly exceeding the previous November record from 1972, when the snow cover reached 12.4 cm. This snowfall has become the heaviest in November since records began in 1907.

Consequences and Government Response:

Transportation Issues: Over 140 flights were canceled, including those from Incheon International Airport. Ferry services were also suspended, causing significant disruptions in transport connections.

Safety: Four people died as a result of accidents caused by the snowfall. Two of them were victims of a traffic accident on the east of Seoul, where a massive pile-up involving 53 cars occurred. Two others died due to the collapse of snow barricades.

Government Measures: South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol ordered the mobilization of all available resources to minimize the effects of the snowfall. Safety and transport services were activated to ensure public safety and to keep citizens informed about the current situation.

Public Life: In some areas, especially in Gyeonggi Province, schools were given the option to close to ensure the safety of students and staff.

Climate Context:

The unusually heavy snowfall in November is due to a combination of high sea temperatures to the west of the Korean Peninsula and cold air currents, creating conditions for a major snow event. These weather conditions underscore the variability and extremity of contemporary climate, possibly exacerbated by global warming.

Conclusion:

This snowfall not only posed several challenges for the residents of the capital but also marked a historic event in South Korea's meteorological history. Authorities and municipal services continue to work on mitigating the aftermath, while the population adapts to the new realities of the winter season, which kicked off with unprecedented weather phenomena.