Why does Seoul get so cold?
Seoul is known for its extreme cold temperatures, which can drop to below freezing point during winter. This article will explore the various factors that contribute to the freezing cold weather in Seoul.
Geographical Location
Seoul is located in the northern hemisphere and is surrounded by mountains on all sides. The city is also situated on a high plateau which makes it more susceptible to colder weather conditions. The city’s location also means it is exposed to cold winds blowing from Siberia, which can bring sub-zero temperatures.
Cold Ocean Currents
The Sea of Japan, which is located to the east of Korea, has a strong cold current called the Liman current. This current flows southwards towards the Korean peninsula and affects the temperature of the air. This means that Seoul experiences colder temperatures than other cities on the same latitude.
High Humidity
Seoul has high humidity levels which can exacerbate cold temperatures. High humidity makes it feel colder than it actually is because moisture in the air makes it harder for our bodies to retain heat. This means that even when temperatures are only slightly below freezing point, it can feel much colder.
Urban Heat Island Effect
The urban heat island effect refers to the phenomenon where cities are warmer than their surrounding rural areas. However, this effect is not as pronounced in Seoul due to its high altitude and surrounding mountains which trap cold air in the city.
Cold Air Masses
Cold air masses from Siberia frequently move southwards towards Korea during winter. These air masses are extremely cold and can cause temperatures to plummet quickly. When these air masses collide with warm, moist air from the Pacific Ocean, it can lead to heavy snowfall in Seoul.
Low Solar Radiation
During winter, Seoul receives less solar radiation from the sun due to its northern location. This means that the city experiences fewer daylight hours and less warmth from the sun. This contributes to the overall cold temperature of the city.
High Altitude
Seoul has a high altitude of 87 meters above sea level, which means that it is cooler than many other cities at the same latitude. Higher altitudes mean that there is less air pressure, which leads to lower temperatures.
Pollution
The high levels of pollution in Seoul can also contribute to colder temperatures. Pollution can trap heat in the atmosphere and prevent it from escaping, which can cause temperatures to drop even further. The cold air also traps pollution close to the ground, leading to poor air quality.
Low Wind Speeds
During winter, wind speeds in Seoul are generally low. This means that cold air is not dispersed quickly, leading to stagnant air and colder temperatures. When there are high winds, temperatures can feel warmer because they help to disperse the cold air.
Inadequate Heating Infrastructure
Many buildings in Seoul were built without proper insulation or heating systems. This means that even when heating is available, it may not be effective at warming up homes and buildings during extreme cold weather conditions.
Cultural Factors
Cultural factors also play a role in the cold weather experienced in Seoul. Koreans traditionally prefer cooler indoor temperatures and wear more layers of clothing. This means that heating systems may not be used as frequently, leading to cooler indoor temperatures.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are various factors that contribute to the freezing cold weather experienced in Seoul. From its geographical location and high altitude to pollution and cultural factors, all these factors combine to make Seoul one of the coldest cities in the world during winter.
Is Seoul always cold?
South Korea experiences a continental climate with extremely cold and dry winters, while summers are hot and humid. The periods of spring and autumn are short and temperatures are mild, making them the most pleasant times to visit the country.
Why is Seoul so much colder than Tokyo?
Having experienced living in both Seoul and Tokyo, I can confirm that Seoul is considerably colder than Tokyo and probably even colder than Shanghai due to its northern location. Tokyo, on the other hand, benefits from the Japan Alps that shelter it from the cold Siberian winds, making it warmer than many other areas in Japan.
Is Seoul colder than NYC?
Compared to New York, Seoul has generally warmer weather with an average temperature of 13.89°C (57.0°F) while New York’s temperature averages at 13.27°C (55.89°F), resulting in a difference of 0.62°C (33.12°F).
What is the coldest it gets in Seoul?
In the winter, the city is affected by the Siberian High-pressure zones and western winds, causing temperatures to drop as low as -20 °C (-4 °F) during extremely cold periods due to the terrain.
Is snow rare in Seoul?
In Korea, it can snow anywhere and the whole country experiences cold temperatures during winter. However, snow is not very common in non-mountainous regions, with only 3-4 weeks of snowfall in cities each year, and it does not occur constantly.
Which part of Korea is the coldest?
Gyeonggi-do has a cold climate, with an average high temperature of only 17 degrees. The weather is similar to that of Central Europe.
Efforts to Combat Cold Weather
Despite the challenges posed by the extreme cold weather in Seoul, the city has made significant efforts to combat it. The government has implemented various measures to improve heating infrastructure and insulation in buildings, especially in older buildings that were not built with adequate heating systems. There are also regulations in place to ensure that new buildings are constructed with proper insulation and heating systems.
In addition, Seoul has invested in renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power to reduce the use of fossil fuels for heating. This has not only helped to combat climate change but has also made it easier for residents to access affordable and sustainable heating options.
Winter Sports and Activities
Despite the cold weather, Seoul offers a range of winter sports and activities for residents and tourists to enjoy during the winter months. Popular activities include skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and sledding at various winter sports resorts located on the outskirts of the city. The city also hosts various winter festivals and events, including the Seoul Lantern Festival which takes place during December and January.
Cold Weather Precautions
It is important for residents and tourists in Seoul to take precautions during extreme cold weather conditions. This includes wearing appropriate clothing such as thick coats, gloves, and hats to protect against hypothermia and frostbite. It is also important to stay hydrated and avoid alcohol which can cause dehydration and increase the risk of hypothermia.
Additionally, it is important to be aware of the signs of hypothermia and seek medical attention if necessary. Symptoms include shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and drowsiness.
Conclusion
Although Seoul may be known for its extreme cold temperatures during winter, it is also a city that has made significant efforts to combat the challenges posed by the cold weather. With its range of winter sports and activities, improved heating infrastructure, and efforts to promote renewable energy sources, Seoul remains a vibrant and exciting city even during the coldest months of the year.