South Korea declares heatwave a national disaster as death toll rises to 19

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has described the country's unprecedented heatwave as a "national disaster", ordering officials to strengthen support for vulnerable people after the death toll linked to the extreme temperatures rose to 19.

Speaking at a cabinet meeting on August 4, Lee instructed authorities to take all necessary measures to protect the public and ensure the stability of the power grid as electricity demand surges amid widespread use of air conditioning, Caliber.Az reports via British media.

He also called for a major overhaul of the country's disaster response system, warning that increasingly abnormal weather patterns could prolong periods of extreme heat.

The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency said 19 people have died from heat-related causes, including 13 aged 80 or over. Since May 15, more than 2,000 people have been treated for heat-related illnesses nationwide.

The Korea Meteorological Administration said the south-eastern city of Yangsan recorded 42.5C on August 2, the highest temperature observed in the country since weather records began 122 years ago.

The agency also issued its first-ever heatwave warning for Seoul, extending the alert across the capital on August 4. The warning advises people to suspend outdoor activities, including farming, construction work and sport.

Authorities have stepped up emergency measures in vulnerable communities, relocating some residents to air-conditioned temporary accommodation while firefighters and local officials check on those at risk of heat-related illness.

The extreme weather has also disrupted daily life, with two Korea Baseball Organization games scheduled for August 4 in Seoul and Gwangju cancelled because of the heat.