Record Temperatures in South Korea Result in 21 Fatalities Amid Ongoing Heat Wave

The current heat wave in South Korea, the most lethal in recent history, has claimed the lives of at least 21 individuals and led to thousands seeking medical attention, compelling the government to announce a national disaster. On August 2, the city of Yangsan reached an unprecedented 42.5 degrees Celsius (approximately 108 degrees Fahrenheit), marking the highest temperature in 122 years of record-keeping. Seoul has issued its inaugural severe heatwave alert as the city prepares for several consecutive days with temperatures nearing 38 degrees. Since May, over 2,400 people have received treatment for heat-related ailments, with officials cautioning that the actual number of heat-related fatalities, particularly from cardiovascular and respiratory issues, may be significantly underreported. In an unprecedented move, Korea's professional baseball league has started to automatically suspend games under the highest alert status as the heatwave persists without signs of abating.
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