P’yong-dong Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Korea, North
Summer (June-August)
Summer in P’yong-dong is characterized by hot and humid weather. Temperatures typically range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F), with an average temperature of 28°C (82°F). The humidity levels are also high, often exceeding 70%. Rainfall during the summer months is frequent, with thunderstorms and heavy showers common. The precipitation levels usually reach 300 mm (12 in). Despite the heat and humidity, the summer months are a popular time to visit P’yong-dong due to the many outdoor activities available, such as hiking, swimming, and boating.
Winter (December-February)
Winter in P’yong-dong is cold and dry. Temperatures typically range from -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F), with an average temperature of -1°C (30°F). The humidity levels are low, and the air is often crisp and clear. Snowfall is common during the winter months, with an average of 20 cm (8 in) of snow per year. The cold weather can sometimes be harsh, but the snow and ice provide opportunities for winter sports such as skiing and sledding.
Average Temperature
P’yong-dong in North Korea experiences distinct seasonal variations in temperature. The average temperature in the warmest months, which are July and August, ranges from 28°C (82°F) to 30°C (86°F). During the coldest months, December and January, the average temperature drops to a frigid -3°C (27°F) to -5°C (23°F). The temperature can reach extreme lows of up to -20°C (-4°F) during these winter months.
Precipitation, Humidity, and Wind
P’yong-dong receives moderate precipitation throughout the year, with an average annual rainfall of 990 millimeters (39 inches). The majority of the precipitation falls during the summer months, with July and August seeing the highest rainfall. The city also experiences high humidity levels, varying from 50% to 80% throughout the year. Winds are predominantly from the northwest, with average speeds ranging from 2 to 4 meters per second (4.5 to 9 miles per hour).
Clouds in P’yong-dong, Korea, North
P’yong-dong is located in North Korea, a country known for its unpredictable political climate. However, the clouds in P’yong-dong are surprisingly consistent. The most common cloud type in P’yong-dong is cirrus clouds, which are thin, wispy clouds that are composed of ice crystals. Cirrus clouds are often seen in the sky during the day and can be a sign of fair weather.
Other types of clouds that are commonly seen in P’yong-dong include cumulus clouds, which are puffy clouds that look like cotton balls, and stratus clouds, which are flat, gray clouds that cover the entire sky. Cumulus clouds are often seen in the sky during the morning and can be a sign of good weather. Stratus clouds are often seen in the sky during the evening and can be a sign of rain or snow.
Monthly Precipitation
P’yong-dong, Korea, North experiences significant variation in precipitation throughout the year. During the summer months of June to August, heavy rainfall is common, with monthly precipitation often exceeding 200 millimeters. This is due to the influence of the East Asian monsoon, which brings warm, moist air from the ocean. In contrast, the winter months of December to February are much drier, with monthly precipitation typically below 50 millimeters. This is because the monsoon winds weaken during this time, and cold, dry air from the north dominates.
Annual Precipitation
The total annual precipitation in P’yong-dong, Korea, North averages around 1,100 millimeters. This is relatively low compared to many other regions in Asia, but it is still sufficient to support a variety of plant and animal life. The majority of the precipitation falls during the summer months, which can lead to flooding and other water-related hazards. However, the dry winter months can also be challenging, as the lack of rainfall can lead to droughts and other water shortages.
Annual Precipitation
P’yong-dong’s annual precipitation is characterized by its distinct seasonal variations. The wettest period occurs during the summer months (June to August) when the East Asian monsoon brings abundant moisture from the Pacific Ocean. During this time, heavy rainfall events are common, contributing significantly to the region’s total annual precipitation. The driest months, on the other hand, are typically observed in the winter (December to February) when cold, dry air dominates the region.
Monthly Distribution of Rainfall
The monthly distribution of rainfall in P’yong-dong exhibits a bimodal pattern, with two distinct peaks. The primary peak occurs during the monsoon season in July, while the secondary peak usually occurs in September. In July, precipitation can exceed 300 millimeters, with frequent heavy downpours. The September peak is often associated with tropical cyclones or the remnants of typhoons that pass through the area. During the winter months, rainfall is minimal, typically averaging less than 30 millimeters per month.
Snowfall Patterns
In P’yong-dong, Korea, North, snowfall is a common occurrence during the winter months. The average annual snowfall amount is approximately 120 centimeters (47 inches). Snowfall typically begins in November and lasts until March, with the heaviest snowfall occurring in January and February. The snowfall in P’yong-dong is influenced by factors including its location near the Sea of Japan, which acts as a source of moisture for the region. Additionally, the mountainous terrain surrounding P’yong-dong contributes to the increased snowfall amounts.
Impact of Snowfall
The snowfall in P’yong-dong has a significant impact on the local environment and economy. The snow cover protects the ground from freezing and provides insulation for vegetation. The snowmelt in the spring supplies water for irrigation and drinking purposes. However, heavy snowfall can also cause disruptions to daily life and transportation. Road closures and delays are common during snowstorms, and the weight of the snow can damage buildings and power lines. To mitigate these effects, the local government implements snow removal and ice control measures to ensure public safety and mobility.
Sunrise and Sunset
In P’yong-dong, Korea, North, the time of sunrise and sunset varies throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt and orbit. During the summer months, the days are longer, with sunrise occurring around 5:30 AM and sunset around 8:30 PM. In the winter months, the days are shorter, with sunrise occurring around 7:30 AM and sunset around 5:30 PM. On average, P’yong-dong experiences approximately 14 hours of daylight in the summer and 10 hours of daylight in the winter.
Seasonality
P’yong-dong, Korea, North has four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Spring typically begins in March and lasts until May, with temperatures gradually rising and flowers blooming. Summer spans from June to August, characterized by warm and humid weather, with occasional thunderstorms. Autumn, from September to November, brings cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage. Winter, from December to February, is cold and dry, with snowfall occurring throughout the season.
Appearance and Characteristics:
The Moon, as observed from P’yong-dong, North Korea, appears as a luminous orb in the night sky. Its surface is visible under moonlight, revealing a complex and cratered landscape. The Moon’s apparent size and brightness vary throughout its orbit around Earth, ranging from a small, crescent shape during the new moon phase to a large, full circle at the full moon phase. The Moon’s surface is primarily composed of lunar regolith, a fine-grained material created by meteorite impacts over billions of years.
Cultural and Scientific Significance:
The Moon has held cultural significance for centuries, inspiring poetry, art, and mythology. In North Korean culture, the Moon is often associated with reunification and hope. The country has several monuments and landmarks dedicated to the Moon, including the Giant Moonstone Statue on Mount Paektu and the Baekdu Observatory. Scientifically, the Moon has been the subject of extensive research and exploration. North Korea has a modest space program and has collaborated with other nations on lunar missions. In 2013, North Korea launched a satellite that carried a lunar probe into orbit around the Moon.
Seasonal Humidity Variation
Humidity in P’yong-dong, North Korea, exhibits distinct seasonal patterns. During the warm and sultry summer months from June to August, the relative humidity hovers around 80-85%, creating an oppressive atmosphere. The high moisture content in the air makes outdoor activities uncomfortable and can exacerbate respiratory conditions. In contrast, the dry and frigid winter brings significantly lower humidity levels, typically ranging from 40-50%. This dryness can cause skin irritation, nasal congestion, and other discomfort.
Impact on Health and Well-being
High humidity levels in summer can have adverse health effects, especially for individuals with respiratory issues. The presence of moisture in the air supports the growth of mold, mildew, and dust mites, which can trigger allergies and asthma attacks. Additionally, excessive sweating due to high humidity can lead to dehydration and heat-related illnesses. During winter, low humidity levels can also affect health by causing dry eyes, nosebleeds, and chapped lips. Maintaining adequate indoor humidity levels through use of humidifiers or dehumidifiers is crucial for both comfort and well-being.
Wind Speed
The average wind speed in P’yong-dong, Korea, North, varies depending on the time of year. During the winter months, the average wind speed is around 3 meters per second (m/s). In the spring and autumn, the average wind speed increases to around 4 m/s. The highest average wind speed is recorded during the summer months, when it reaches around 5 m/s.
Wind Direction
The prevailing wind direction in P’yong-dong, Korea, North, is from the northwest. This is due to the influence of the Siberian High, a large area of high atmospheric pressure that forms over Siberia during the winter months. The Siberian High causes cold, dry air to flow out from the northwest, which results in the prevailing wind direction in P’yong-dong.
Best Time to Visit for Warm Weather Activities
For those seeking warm temperatures and clear skies, the ideal time to visit P’yong-dong is during the summer months from June to August. The average temperature during this period hovers around 25°C (77°F), offering comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. The humidity levels are relatively low, making it easy to enjoy extended periods outdoors without feeling uncomfortable. The sun shines brightly for most of the day, allowing visitors to take advantage of the numerous parks, hiking trails, and beaches in the area. Additionally, there are many festivals and cultural events held during the summer, providing ample opportunities to immerse oneself in North Korean culture.
Best Time to Visit for Cool Weather Activities
While P’yong-dong experiences cold and snowy winters, the shoulder seasons of spring and fall offer a pleasant compromise between warm and cool weather. From April to May, the temperatures gradually rise from around 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F), creating a mild and refreshing atmosphere. The skies are often clear and sunny, providing ample opportunities for outdoor exploration. Similarly, September to October sees temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F), with moderate humidity levels. During these seasons, visitors can comfortably enjoy outdoor activities without the extreme heat of summer or the icy cold of winter.
Solar Energy Potential
P’yong-dong, North Korea, lies in a region with abundant solar energy potential. The area receives an average of 5.3 kWh/m²/day of solar radiation, making it suitable for solar energy generation. The city’s high latitude, however, results in significant seasonal variations in sunlight. During the summer months, long daylight hours provide ample opportunity for solar power production, while shorter daylight hours in winter can limit output.
Development and Implementation
Despite the potential for solar energy, its development in P’yong-dong has been limited. The country’s political isolation, economic sanctions, and lack of infrastructure have hindered the widespread adoption of renewable energy sources. However, there have been some small-scale efforts to utilize solar energy in the city. In 2017, a pilot project installed solar panels on the roofs of public buildings, demonstrating the viability of solar power generation in P’yong-dong. These initiatives suggest that the potential for solar energy in the city remains largely untapped and holds promise for future development.
Terrain and Elevation
P’yong-dong is situated in a mountainous region, with steep slopes and rugged terrain defining its topography. The elevation within the neighborhood varies significantly, ranging from approximately 10 meters above sea level in the northernmost areas to over 100 meters in the southernmost regions. The terrain is characterized by a series of hills and valleys, creating a picturesque landscape. The most prominent elevation is Mount P’yong-dong, located in the southern part of the neighborhood, which rises to an elevation of 105 meters and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Drainage and Water Bodies
P’yong-dong has a well-developed drainage system, with several streams and rivers crisscrossing the neighborhood. These waterways collect rainwater and runoff from the surrounding mountains and valleys, ultimately draining into the Larger Taedong River. The largest stream in the area is the Chilbong River, which flows through the central part of the neighborhood before joining the Taedong River to the south. Other notable waterways include the Ch’onma and Wonsan Rivers, which contribute to the drainage system and provide a source of water for local residents and businesses.
Sunan International Airport (FNJ)
The nearest airport to P’yong-dong, Korea, North, is Sunan International Airport (FNJ). It is the primary international airport serving the capital city of Pyongyang. FNJ is located approximately 24 kilometers (15 miles) northwest of P’yong-dong and offers both domestic and international flights. The airport has a single runway and a passenger terminal that can accommodate up to 2.5 million passengers annually. Sunan International Airport is the main gateway for international travel to and from North Korea and is served by a limited number of airlines, including Air China, Aeroflot, and China Eastern Airlines.
Other Nearby Airports
While Sunan International Airport is the closest airport to P’yong-dong, there are several other airports located within a reasonable distance. These include:
- Pyongyang International Airport (PYG): Located approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) northwest of P’yong-dong, PYG is a smaller airport that primarily serves domestic flights within North Korea.
- Nampo Airport (NAM): Located approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) southwest of P’yong-dong, NAM is a military airport that occasionally handles civilian flights.
- Wonsan International Airport (WOS): Located approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) east of P’yong-dong, WOS is an international airport that serves the eastern coast of North Korea.
History of P’yong-dong
P’yong-dong is a neighborhood in the P’yŏngch’ŏn-guyŏk district of Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea. It is located on the western bank of the Taedong River and is bounded by the Ponghak and Sadong neighborhoods to the north, the Sosong District to the east, the Taedong River to the south, and the Phyongchon District to the west. The neighborhood was first settled in the 15th century and was originally known as P’yŏngnae-dong. It was renamed P’yong-dong in the early 20th century.
Demographics of P’yong-dong
P’yong-dong is one of the most densely populated neighborhoods in Pyongyang. The majority of the population is ethnically Korean, but there are also small numbers of Chinese and Japanese residents. The neighborhood is home to a number of government buildings, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of National Defense, and the Supreme People’s Assembly. There are also several universities and colleges in the neighborhood, including Kim Il-sung University and Kim Chaek University of Technology. The main industry in P’yong-dong is manufacturing, and there are a number of factories in the neighborhood that produce a variety of goods, including electronics, textiles, and machinery.