Daegu Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Korea, South

Summer

Daegu experiences hot and humid summers from June to August. The average high temperature during this period ranges from 30°C (86°F) to 32°C (90°F), while the average low temperature hovers around 21°C (70°F) to 23°C (73°F). The city receives significant rainfall during summer, with frequent thunderstorms and heavy downpours. The monsoon season typically lasts from late June to mid-July, bringing intense rainfall that can cause flooding in some areas.

Winter

Daegu’s winters, from December to February, are cold and dry. The average high temperature during this time drops to around 4°C (39°F) to 6°C (43°F), while the average low temperature can reach freezing point at -2°C (28°F) to -1°C (30°F). The city experiences strong winds and occasional snowfall, which can accumulate on the ground for several days. However, Daegu typically receives less snow than other parts of South Korea due to its inland location and lower elevation.

Seasonal Temperature Variations

Daegu, located in South Korea, experiences distinct seasonal temperature variations throughout the year. During the summer months from June to August, average temperatures soar to around 28°C (82°F), with occasional peaks reaching up to 35°C (95°F). High humidity levels can often accompany these hot and humid conditions. The sweltering weather can be challenging for outdoor activities, although the city offers ample air-conditioned shelters and respite.

Winter Temperatures

In contrast to the summer heat, Daegu’s winters from December to February are frigid, with average temperatures hovering around 0°C (32°F). Sub-zero temperatures are common, especially at night, and occasional snowfalls can blanket the city. The cold and windy conditions necessitate warm clothing and adequate protection to prevent hypothermia and frostbite. Despite the cold, Daegu offers various indoor attractions and heated spaces to escape the winter chill.

Types of Clouds

Daegu, Korea, South experiences a variety of cloud types throughout the year. During the summer, puffy cumulus clouds are common, while wispy cirrus clouds often appear in the winter. Stratus clouds, which are low and gray, can bring drizzle or light rain. For overcast conditions and precipitation, nimbostratus clouds are responsible, often accompanying storms. During thunderstorms, towering cumulonimbus clouds can produce hail, lightning, and heavy rain.

Cloud Cover and Precipitation

Cloud cover in Daegu is highly variable. In the summer, cloud cover is often minimal, allowing for ample sunshine. However, during the winter, cloud cover is more prevalent, leading to reduced sunlight. This variation in cloud cover influences precipitation patterns in Daegu. During the summer, precipitation is generally infrequent, with occasional thunderstorms. In contrast, the winter months bring more consistent precipitation, primarily in the form of rain or snow. Seasonal changes in cloud cover directly impact Daegu’s weather patterns and overall climate.

Monthly and Annual Precipitation Patterns

Daegu, South Korea, experiences significant seasonal variation in precipitation, influenced by the East Asian monsoon. The wettest months are July and August, averaging over 300 millimeters (mm) of rainfall each. During this period, the city is prone to frequent and heavy downpours due to the influx of moisture from the Pacific Ocean. Precipitation gradually decreases from September to December, as the monsoon weakens. The driest months are January and February, with monthly precipitation typically below 30 mm.

Extreme Precipitation Events

Daegu is occasionally susceptible to extreme precipitation events, particularly during the summer months. These events can result in flash floods, landslides, and infrastructure damage. One notable example occurred in August 2020, when the city experienced a record-breaking 293 mm of rainfall in just 24 hours. Such extreme events arebecoming more frequent and intense due to climate change, posing significant challenges to urban planning and disaster risk management.

Rainfall Patterns and Variability

Daegu, South Korea, experiences a temperate monsoon climate with distinct seasons that influence its rainfall patterns. Summer months (June-August) are the wettest, with heavy rainfall brought by the East Asian monsoon. During this period, intense downpours and thunderstorms are common, contributing to a significant portion of the annual precipitation. Conversely, winter months (December-February) are typically dry, with limited rainfall due to the influence of cold, dry air masses from Siberia.

Historical Trends and Extreme Events

Long-term rainfall data for Daegu indicates an average annual precipitation of approximately 950-1,100 mm. Inter-annual variability is observed, with some years experiencing above-average rainfall and others falling below the norm. However, there has been a general trend towards increasing rainfall over the past several decades, coinciding with a global trend of climate change. This trend has resulted in more frequent and intense extreme rainfall events, leading to concerns about flood risks and water management challenges in Daegu and surrounding areas.

Cause of the Snowfall

The snowfall in Daegu, Korea, South, was primarily caused by a cold front that moved across the Korean Peninsula on the afternoon of January 23, 2023. As the cold front encountered warm, humid air over the Yellow Sea, it lifted and cooled the air, leading to the formation of snow clouds. Strong winds associated with the cold front further intensified the snowfall, resulting in heavy accumulation in Daegu and surrounding areas.

Impact of the Snowfall

The snowfall had a significant impact on Daegu, South Korea. The city received approximately 15 centimeters (6 inches) of snow, disrupting transportation and daily activities. Roads became slippery and hazardous, leading to traffic delays and accidents. Public transportation services, including buses and trains, were also affected by the heavy snowfall. Businesses and schools were closed or delayed, as many employees and students were unable to travel safely due to the weather conditions.

Current Conditions

As of [current date and time], the sun is shining brightly in Daegu, South Korea. The current temperature is a comfortable [temperature in Celsius] degrees Celsius, with a [percentage]% humidity. The wind is blowing from the [direction] at a speed of [speed in km/h] kilometers per hour. The sky is clear and visibility is excellent.

Forecast for the Day

The forecast for the rest of the day predicts continued sunshine with a moderate breeze. The temperature is expected to rise to a high of [high temperature in Celsius] degrees Celsius in the afternoon and then gradually cool down to [low temperature in Celsius] degrees Celsius by nightfall. The humidity levels will remain relatively low throughout the day. Overall, the weather in Daegu today is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Conditions are expected to stay dry and comfortable, providing ample opportunities to explore the city’s attractions and enjoy the natural scenery.

Moon Sighting in Daegu

The moon plays a significant role in East Asian culture and is often associated with important events and festivals. In Daegu, South Korea, the moon is particularly revered due to the city’s location within the Daegu Basin, which is known for its clear weather conditions. As a result, the moon is often visible from Daegu, even during the day, and has become a beloved symbol of the city.

Cultural Significance of the Moon

In Korean culture, the moon is associated with beauty, mystery, and good fortune. It is a popular subject of poetry, art, and music. The full moon, in particular, is considered a time of celebration and renewal. In Daegu, the full moon is celebrated with various festivals and events, including the Daegu Moonlight Festival, which features traditional music performances, food stalls, and fireworks displays. The moon also plays a role in Korean traditional medicine, with the belief that it influences the body’s health and energy levels.

Seasonal Variations in Humidity

Daegu experiences significant seasonal variations in humidity. During the summer months, from June to August, humidity levels are typically highest, routinely exceeding 70%. The combination of high temperatures and humidity can create an uncomfortable and muggy atmosphere. In contrast, during the winter months, from December to February, humidity is noticeably lower, often dropping below 40%. These dry conditions can lead to chapped lips, dry skin, and respiratory issues for some individuals.

Impact on Daily Life and Health

High humidity levels can have a noticeable impact on daily life and health. When humidity is high, sweat evaporates less effectively, which can lead to discomfort and a feeling of being overheated. Additionally, it can contribute to the growth of mold and mildew, which can trigger allergies and respiratory problems. Low humidity, on the other hand, can lead to dry skin, chapped lips, and an increased risk of static electricity. Maintaining optimal indoor humidity levels is important for comfort and good health. During the summer months, air conditioning and dehumidifiers can help reduce humidity, while humidifiers may be necessary during the winter to increase moisture in the air.

Wind Patterns and Seasonality

Daegu, located in the southeastern region of South Korea, experiences distinct wind patterns influenced by its geographical location. During the winter months (December to February), the prevailing winds are northwesterly, carrying cold and dry air from the Siberian interior. These winds can be particularly strong, especially during the early morning and evening hours.

In contrast, during the summer months (June to August), the prevailing winds shift to the southwesterly direction, bringing warm and humid air from the Pacific Ocean. These winds tend to be more gentle and less pronounced compared to the winter winds. However, occasional tropical cyclones or typhoons can bring strong and gusty winds during the late summer and early autumn months.

Wind Speed and Variability

The average wind speed in Daegu varies throughout the year. During the winter months, the average wind speed ranges from 3 to 5 meters per second (6-11 miles per hour). In the summer months, the average wind speed decreases to around 2-3 meters per second (4-7 miles per hour).

The variability of wind speed is also influenced by the topography of the region. The mountainous terrain surrounding Daegu can create localized wind patterns, resulting in areas with higher or lower wind speeds compared to the general average. Additionally, the presence of urban structures, such as buildings and vegetation, can further alter local wind conditions.

Spring (March-May)

Spring in Daegu is characterized by mild temperatures and vibrant colors as nature awakens from its winter slumber. The average temperature ranges from 5 to 20 degrees Celsius, and the humidity is relatively low. The cherry blossoms are in full bloom during this time, creating a picturesque landscape throughout the city. This season is ideal for outdoor activities, such as hiking at Palgongsan National Park or strolling through the scenic Gyeongsan Lake Park.

Autumn (September-November)

Autumn in Daegu brings a vibrant palette of colors as the leaves change from shades of green to hues of red, orange, and yellow. The average temperature ranges from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius, making it a comfortable time for exploration. The crisp autumn air is perfect for exploring the many historical and cultural sites in Daegu, including the Dalseong Park Historic Site and the Yangnyeongsi Traditional Market. The annual Daegu International Opera Festival is also held during this season, offering an array of world-renowned performances.

Potential of Solar Energy in Daegu

Daegu, a metropolitan city in South Korea, holds significant potential for solar energy harnessing due to its favorable climatic conditions. Daegu receives an average of 2,400 sunshine hours annually, higher than the national average. The city’s clear skies and low levels of air pollution create an optimal environment for efficient photovoltaic (PV) panel operation. These factors make Daegu an attractive location for large-scale solar power installations, which can potentially supply a substantial portion of the city’s energy needs.

Current Status and Development

The city government of Daegu has recognized the importance of solar energy and has implemented various policies and incentives to promote its adoption. As a result, several large-scale solar PV projects have been established in Daegu, including rooftop installations and ground-mounted solar farms. In addition, the city has implemented rooftop solar rebates and net metering programs to encourage residential and commercial buildings to install solar systems. These initiatives have contributed to a growing solar energy sector in Daegu, with an increasing number of solar installations and a steadily declining cost of solar power. The city aims to continue expanding its solar energy capacity and is exploring innovative approaches such as floating solar arrays to maximize its renewable energy potential.

Mountains and Hills

Daegu is located in a basin surrounded by rugged mountains and hills. The most notable mountain peak is Palgongsan, reaching an elevation of 1,192 meters. Other prominent peaks include Biseulsan, Hwangaksan, and Duryunsan. These mountains provide a scenic backdrop to the city and offer opportunities for hiking and nature appreciation. The terrain slopes gently towards the Nakdong River, the main waterway that flows through Daegu.

Plateaus and Valleys

Within the basin, there are several plateaus and valleys that contribute to Daegu’s diverse topography. One notable plateau is Daegu Plateau, which is situated in the western part of the city. It is characterized by its flat topography and serves as a residential and commercial area. In contrast, valleys such as the Dongdaegu Valley and Suseong Valley are located along the Nakdong River and feature lush greenery and scenic vistas. These valleys add to the overall charm of Daegu and provide recreational spaces for residents and visitors.

Daegu International Airport

Daegu International Airport (TAE) is the primary airport serving the city of Daegu in South Korea. It is located in the district of Dalseo-gu, approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) southeast of the city center. TAE operates both domestic and international flights, with direct routes to major cities in South Korea, China, Japan, and Southeast Asia. The airport features a modern terminal building with a wide range of amenities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, and a business center. It also has a dedicated cargo terminal and serves as a hub for the low-cost carrier Air Busan. TAE is a convenient gateway for both business and leisure travelers visiting Daegu and the surrounding region.

Gimhae International Airport

While Daegu International Airport is the closest airport to Daegu, travelers may also consider flying into Gimhae International Airport (PUS) in Busan. PUS is located approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) south of Daegu and offers a wider range of international flight options. However, the travel time from PUS to Daegu is longer, typically around 1.5 hours by car or bus. Travelers should weigh the convenience of flying into Daegu International Airport against the potential cost savings and flight options available from Gimhae International Airport.

Historical Significance

Daegu, situated in southeastern South Korea, has a rich and layered history spanning centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the ancient kingdom of Silla, founded in the first century BCE. During the Joseon dynasty (1392-1910), Daegu emerged as a regional trading hub and cultural center, facilitated by its strategic location at the heart of the Gyeongbuk region. The city played a pivotal role in Korea’s economic and political development during the 19th and early 20th centuries, as it became a hub for textiles, medicine, and education.

Modern Daegu

Today, Daegu is a dynamic metropolis with a population of over 2.5 million people. It is the fourth-largest city in South Korea and serves as the economic and cultural center of the Gyeongbuk region. Daegu boasts a thriving industrial sector, with strengths in textile manufacturing, machinery, and electronics. The city is also home to numerous universities and research institutes, making it a hub of higher education and innovation. Daegu has a rich and diverse culture, featuring traditional markets, historic temples, and modern art museums. It is known for its vibrant street food scene and its reputation as a fashion capital.