Daegu

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Extreme Weather Events

Insight into extreme weather risks such as heatwaves, typhoons, or heavy snow in Daegu.

Sections

1. Types of Extreme Weather in Daegu

Daegu experiences four distinct seasons, and extreme weather events are typically tied to specific times of the year. The most common types of extreme weather in Daegu include:

a. Heatwaves (Summer)

  • Frequency: Daegu is often referred to as "Daefrica" by locals due to its notoriously hot and humid summers. Heatwaves are common from late June to early September, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). The city is one of the hottest in South Korea due to its inland location and surrounding mountains, which trap heat.
  • Impact: Prolonged heatwaves can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke and dehydration, especially for the elderly, children, and outdoor workers.

b. Heavy Rainfall and Typhoons (Summer to Early Fall)

  • Frequency: The monsoon season (known as "jangma") occurs from late June to late July, bringing heavy rainfall. Typhoons, though less frequent in Daegu compared to coastal cities, can still affect the area between August and September.
  • Impact: Heavy rains can cause localized flooding, landslides, and disruptions to transportation. Typhoons may bring strong winds and additional rainfall, though Daegu is somewhat shielded by its inland location.

c. Cold Snaps and Snowfall (Winter)

  • Frequency: Winters in Daegu are cold but relatively dry, with occasional cold snaps that can drop temperatures below -10°C (14°F). Snowfall is rare but can occur a few times per year, usually in small amounts.
  • Impact: While snow is not a major issue, icy roads and sidewalks can pose hazards for pedestrians and drivers.

d. Air Pollution and Yellow Dust (Spring)

  • Frequency: During spring (March to May), Daegu, like much of South Korea, experiences yellow dust storms originating from the deserts of China and Mongolia. These storms carry fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), which can worsen air quality.
  • Impact: Poor air quality can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies, particularly for vulnerable populations.

2. Preparation Tips for Extreme Weather

a. Heatwaves

  • Clothing: Wear lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. Use hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Hydration: Always carry water with you. Convenience stores are abundant in Daegu, making it easy to purchase drinks.
  • Cooling Centers: The city sets up air-conditioned public spaces, such as libraries, community centers, and subway stations, as cooling centers during heatwaves.
  • Home Preparation: Invest in fans or air conditioning units. Electricity costs in South Korea can be high, so budget accordingly if you plan to use air conditioning frequently.
  • Cultural Note: Locals often eat "cooling" foods like naengmyeon (cold noodles) or bingsu (shaved ice dessert) to beat the heat.

b. Heavy Rainfall and Typhoons

  • Rain Gear: Always carry an umbrella or raincoat during the monsoon season. High-quality umbrellas are widely available in local stores.
  • Footwear: Waterproof shoes or boots are essential to navigate flooded streets.
  • Home Preparation: Ensure windows and doors are sealed properly to prevent leaks. Consider purchasing sandbags if you live in a low-lying area.
  • Emergency Kit: Keep a flashlight, batteries, non-perishable food, and bottled water at home in case of power outages.
  • Insurance: Flood insurance is not mandatory but can be a wise investment if you live in a flood-prone area. Check with local insurance providers for coverage options.

c. Cold Snaps and Snowfall

  • Clothing: Layer up with thermal wear, insulated jackets, gloves, scarves, and hats. Heat packs (available at convenience stores) are popular for keeping hands warm.
  • Transportation: Be cautious when driving or walking on icy roads. Public transportation, such as buses and subways, is a safer option during snowy or icy conditions.
  • Home Preparation: Ensure your heating system is functional. Electric or gas heaters are common, but be mindful of energy costs.

d. Air Pollution and Yellow Dust

  • Masks: Wear high-quality masks (KF94 or N95) to protect against fine dust particles. These are widely available in pharmacies.
  • Air Purifiers: Consider investing in an air purifier for your home, especially if you have respiratory issues.
  • Apps and Alerts: Use apps like "AirVisual" or "Korea Meteorological Administration" to monitor air quality levels in real time.

3. Emergency Procedures

  • Emergency Numbers:
    • Police: 112
    • Fire and Ambulance: 119
    • Foreigner Support Center: 1345 (for assistance in multiple languages)
  • Emergency Shelters: Daegu has designated emergency shelters, often located in schools or community centers. These are used during typhoons or other disasters. Maps and information are available on the Daegu city website or through local government offices.
  • Alerts: Sign up for emergency alerts through the Korean Meteorological Administration (KMA) or download apps like "Safety Korea" for real-time updates in English.

4. Navigating Local Areas During Extreme Weather

  • Public Transportation: Daegu’s subway system is reliable and operates during most weather conditions. Buses may experience delays during heavy rain or snow.
  • Flood-Prone Areas: Avoid low-lying areas near rivers or streams during heavy rainfall. The Sincheon River, which runs through Daegu, can overflow during extreme weather.
  • Mountain Trails: Daegu is surrounded by mountains like Palgongsan and Apsan. Avoid hiking during typhoons, heavy rain, or extreme heat, as trails can become dangerous.

5. Cultural Practices and Local Insights

  • Community Spirit: During extreme weather events, neighbors often check on each other, especially the elderly. If you’re new to the area, don’t hesitate to introduce yourself to your neighbors—they may offer help or advice during emergencies.
  • Seasonal Foods: Koreans often adapt their diets to the weather. For example, samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) is traditionally eaten during the hottest days of summer to replenish energy.
  • Festivals and Events: Some outdoor festivals in Daegu may be canceled or rescheduled due to extreme weather. Always check event updates during the monsoon season or heatwaves.

6. Associated Costs

  • Insurance: Flood and property insurance can cost anywhere from ₩100,000 to ₩500,000 annually, depending on coverage.
  • Equipment: High-quality air purifiers range from ₩200,000 to ₩1,000,000. Masks cost around ₩1,000 to ₩2,000 each.
  • Utilities: Expect higher electricity bills during summer and winter due to air conditioning and heating usage. Monthly costs can range from ₩50,000 to ₩200,000, depending on your consumption.

7. Final Tips

  • Stay informed by following local news channels or subscribing to weather alerts.
  • Familiarize yourself with Daegu’s geography and identify the nearest emergency shelters.
  • Build a network of friends or neighbors who can provide support during extreme weather events.

By understanding the types of extreme weather in Daegu and taking proactive steps to prepare, you can navigate the city safely and comfortably, no matter the season.