[🇺🇸] South Korea Blanketed by Worst Fine Dust from China This Year; Skies Turn Ash Gray

A dense layer of fine dust covered South Korea on Friday, January 16, significantly reducing visibility across the country.

 According to the National Institute of Environmental Research and the Korea Meteorological Administration, a combination of pollutants from China and yellow dust from the Inner Mongolian Plateau has been trapped over the peninsula due to atmospheric stagnation.

In Seoul, PM2.5 levels averaged 68μg/m3, with certain districts like Dongjak and Gwanak reaching "Very Bad" levels, peaking at 133μg/m3 and 122μg/m3, respectively.

In response to the hazardous air quality, authorities have issued the first fine dust crisis alerts of the winter for the Chungcheong and Jeonbuk regions. Emergency reduction measures, including driving restrictions for high-emission Grade 5 vehicles and an alternate-day driving system for public agency vehicles, are currently in effect.

Due to a localized greenhouse effect caused by the stagnant air, daytime temperatures are expected to stay unseasonably warm, ranging between 4 and 16°C. The dust is forecast to clear starting Saturday morning as atmospheric conditions improve.

 Health officials advise the public to wear protective masks and stay hydrated while outdoors.

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