GANGNEUNG, Aug. 5 (Korea Bizwire) – As heat wave warnings persisted across South Korea’s eastern coast and inland areas of Gangwon Province on August 4, both residents and livestock showed visible signs of strain from the relentless temperatures.
In coastal areas, where tropical nights have become the norm, beaches were crowded with locals and tourists seeking relief in the sea breeze.
Gyeongpo Beach in Gangneung, experiencing its 16th consecutive tropical night, saw its sandy shores and pine groves dotted with people sleeping on mats, escaping their sweltering homes.
Even after nightfall, with temperatures remaining above 30 degrees Celsius, the central walkways of the beach were packed with heat-weary visitors.
As the peak vacation season coincides with this intense heat, beachgoers began gathering in small groups from 10:30 p.m., filling the beach to capacity.
“We came here with three friends to cool off and forget about the tropical night,” said a 23-year-old visitor from Seoul, who gave only his surname, Jung. “The youthful energy on the beach helps distract from the heat a bit.”
Inland, the effects of the heat wave were equally apparent. At a Korean cattle farm in Sinbuk-eup, Chuncheon, large ceiling fans ran continuously in an attempt to cool the heat-stressed animals.
Despite the farmers’ efforts, including providing cool water, the cattle showed clear signs of discomfort in the oppressive heat.
Farmers across the region worked tirelessly, even on the weekend, to protect their crops from the scorching sun.
They irrigated rice paddies in the early morning hours and checked sun shields in orchards.
In greenhouses, where temperatures soared above 40 degrees, farmers maximized ventilation and used misting systems to prevent heat damage to their carefully tended crops.
An official from the Gangwon Agricultural Technology Institute urged farmers to stay hydrated and take frequent breaks.
“Especially for elderly farmers, we strongly advise against outdoor work to prevent heat-related illnesses,” the official stated.
Image credit: Yonhap / photonews@koreabizwire.com
