Mysterious Autumn Rains: Unveiling the Secret of Korea’s Weather After Summer Typhoons Disappear

Amid the notable absence of summer typhoons, Korea is experiencing a distinctive autumn rainfall pattern. The Seoul metropolitan area recently recorded its highest rainfall levels since measurements began in 1973, with significant rainfall continuing through September and October.

Record-Breaking Autumn Rains

This autumn, regions in Korea have encountered unprecedented rainfall, earning the term “autumn monsoon.” Seoul has seen rain surpassing 0.1 mm on 20 different days. From mid-September to October 11, the average rainfall in the capital reached 370.8 mm, exceeding the typical levels for this period by more than 3.5 times. Nationwide, the average rainfall hit 230.4 mm, nearly double the usual 123.7 mm.

Unveiling the Weather Dynamics

The persistent rains stem from a unique interaction of atmospheric elements. Unusually fast movement of cold air masses from Siberia towards the Korean Peninsula collided with warm air from the North Pacific high-pressure system. This created frequent rain clouds over the region.

The absence of summer typhoons, a first since 2009, played a crucial role. Typically, post-typhoon periods blend warm and cold air, reducing temperature variances and subsequent rain potential. Without such storms, stagnant rain clouds easily form, leading to continuous rainfall.

Forecast and Future Implications

The autumn rain is expected to persist for the coming days. Heavy rain will sweep nationwide on October 13, with additional rainfall projected for October 15 and 16, starting from regions like Gangwon, Gyeongbuk, and Jeju, before spreading countrywide. On October 17, forecasts predict showers for the Seoul area, with continued rain on October 18 across the nation.

Impacts and Monitoring

• The unusually high rainfall impacts infrastructure and agriculture.
• Authorities are closely monitoring weather patterns and preparing for potential challenges.
• Efforts to adapt to these shifting weather conditions are increasingly important for the future.

Emegypt continues to track the unprecedented rainfall events and their repercussions on the Korean Peninsula, as atmospheric shifts hint at evolving climate trends.