Dust storms from China expected to engulf Korea
Yellow dust storms from China are forecast to enter Korea on Wednesday afternoon, March 12, 2025, covering the whole nation overnight.
Seoul dust storm. Image credit: Pngtree
The Korea Meteorological Administration has warned that yellow dust from China is expected to move into Korea starting Wednesday afternoon, March 12.
Yellow dust originating from the Gobi Desert and Inner Mongolia on Tuesday is being carried toward the Korean Peninsula by northwesterly winds. It is expected to spread across the entire country overnight, beginning with the five islands of the West Sea and the western coast of Gyeonggi.
Fine dust concentrations are also expected to rise. On Wednesday, levels are forecast to be ‘bad’ in the metropolitan area and Chungnam. On Thursday, ‘very bad’ levels are predicted in Incheon, Sejong, Chungbuk, and Chungnam, while other regions are expected to experience ‘bad’ levels.
Light rain is expected in Jeju and the metropolitan area, while Gangwon is forecast. However, the precipitation will not be sufficient to clear the yellow dust and fine dust.
Yellow dust can cause respiratory issues, conjunctivitis, dry eyes, and dermatitis. The Korea Meteorological Administration has advised people to avoid outdoor activities and wear masks when outside. Upon returning home, individuals should wash their hands, feet, eyes, and nose with running water. Ventilation of indoor spaces is recommended only after the yellow dust has dissipated.
The significant temperature variation characteristic of the transitional season is expected to continue. According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, minimum morning temperatures are forecast to range from -3 to -7°C (26 to 19°F) on Thursday and from -2 to -7°C (28 to 19°F) on Friday. Maximum daytime temperatures are expected to rise to 11 to 17°C (52 to 63°F) on Thursday and 11 to 19°C (52 to 66°F) on Friday.
References:
1 Yellow dust from China blankets Korea, prompting mask recommendations – Chosun Biz – March 12, 2025
Rishav Kothari is Editor-in-Chief of The Watchers, where he runs the newsroom and covers earthquakes, volcanoes, severe weather and space weather.
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