Early autumn settles across South Korea on Monday, with rain and clouds along east coast and Jeju

Monday is expected to bring clear skies and near-normal temperatures across most of South Korea, marking the full arrival of early autumn. However, the east coast and Jeju Island will see cloudy conditions with occasional rain.

Strong winds are forecast nationwide, and gusts exceeding 70 kilometers per hour are possible along the Gyeongsang coast and on Jeju Island, where gale warnings have been issued.

The Korea Meteorological Administration forecast that Monday will be mostly clear across the country, but the Gangwon Province coast and mountain areas, the Gyeongsang region and Jeju Island are expected to remain largely overcast, Yonhap reported Saturday.

Rain will be concentrated in the morning in the Gangwon coastal and mountain areas, Busan, Ulsan, the eastern inland areas of South Gyeongsang Province, the southern coast of western South Gyeongsang Province, the east coast and northeastern mountain areas of North Gyeongsang Province, and Jeju Island. Expected rainfall totals are 5 to 10 millimeters for the Gangwon and North Gyeongsang coastal and mountain areas, and less than 5 millimeters for Busan, Ulsan and the South Gyeongsang areas. On Jeju Island, mountain and mid-slope areas can expect 5 to 20 millimeters, while coastal areas will see around 5 millimeters.

In areas receiving rain, reduced visibility and slippery roads are expected, and drivers are advised to maintain a safe following distance and take extra care on the roads.

Strong winds will sweep the country. With gale warnings in effect for the Gyeongsang coast and Jeju Island, gusts could exceed 70 kilometers per hour — and up to 90 kilometers per hour in mountain areas — along the Gyeongsang coast through Monday afternoon and on Jeju Island through early Wednesday morning.

Most other parts of the country will also see gusts of around 55 kilometers per hour through Monday afternoon, and residents are urged to guard against weather-related accidents.

Temperatures will remain close to seasonal norms for now, sustaining the early-autumn feel. Monday morning lows are forecast at 15 to 23 degrees Celsius, with afternoon highs of 25 to 31 degrees. However, the South Jeolla Province region will see apparent temperatures climb to around 31 degrees through Wednesday, and residents there are advised to take care of their health.