South Korea Hits Its Hottest Day Ever Recorded

Yangsan, South Korea reached 42.5°C (108.5°F) on August 2, 2026 — the hottest day since records began in 1904, according to the Korea Meteorological Administration. It was the city's fifth day in a row above 40°C. El Niño, a natural Pacific Ocean warming cycle, returned in 2026 and is intensifying heat on top of long-term climate change.