South Korea Deploys Drones Against 42.5C Heatwave as Lee Calls It a National Disaster
Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Aug 7
South Korea Deploys Drones Against 42.5C Heatwave as Lee Calls It a National Disaster
3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Aug 7
Summary
South Korean authorities are using loudspeaker drones and thermal cameras to warn farmers to stop work and cool down as the country endures a historic heatwave.
42.5C temperatures in Yangsan earlier this week marked a national record, while at least 23 people have died and nearly 2,500 have sought emergency treatment since mid-May.
President Lee Jae Myung ordered agencies to mobilize all available resources, with local governments handing out free bottled water and sprinkler trucks cooling roads in hard-hit southern cities.
Air-conditioned airports in Incheon and Gimpo have become shelters for homeless and elderly residents, while outdoor events from palace guard ceremonies to baseball games were canceled after a 23-year-old spectator collapsed.
Forecasters say daytime highs could ease to about 36C this weekend, but South Korea still sees a 50% chance of above-average heat extending into September and October.