KCDC Issues First Heat‑Wave Severe Warning, Urges Health Guidelines

Amid a nationwide heat wave, Korea’s disease control agency (KCDC) has issued the first “heat‑wave severe warning” and repeatedly urged compliance with health guidelines. Under a severe warning, even healthy individuals can develop serious heat‑related illnesses, so outdoor activities should be minimized and rest taken in cool places. The agency highlighted that the warning applies to southern Gyeongsangbuk‑do, following a national heat‑wave advisory. A severe warning is declared when the daily maximum perceived temperature reaches 35 °C or higher for at least two consecutive days, and forecasts predict a maximum perceived temperature of 38 °C or a maximum actual temperature of 39 °C or higher.