Canada issues new travel advisory update for popular Asian destination
Canada has just issued a travel advisory update for a popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia due to a potential health risk.
On Thursday, the Government of Canada updated its travel advisory for South Korea, warning travellers of an ongoing heat wave.
“Severe heat waves affect South Korea between June and September,” reads the statement. “High temperatures can be dangerous. Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, which can both be fatal.”
During a heat wave, travellers are advised to stay indoors or in the shade during midday hours. It’s also important to carry enough water and to stay hydrated. In addition, make sure to monitor local news for information on heat warnings.
The current heat wave has been deadly.
KIM DONGHO/Shutterstock
On Friday, the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) shared an update stating that 23 people have died and 2,665 patients were hospitalized due to heat-related illnesses.
Korea Times reports that Friday was the hottest ipchu (the beginning of autumn) recorded nationwide by the KMA, with temperatures soaring to 40.2°C in Seoul’s Nowon District at around 3:28 p.m. A heat wave warning is currently in effect for most of the country.
Korea’s Ministry of the Interior and Safety has published guidelines, along with a map of cooling centres and safety facilities such as fire stations, hospitals, and pharmacies.
“Canadians planning to go abroad should read the Travel Advice and Advisories for their destination or destinations,” reads the government website. “Anyone already outside Canada should keep up with updates made to their location’s or destination’s Travel Advice and Advisories.”
Before travelling abroad, you can sign up for the Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA), a free and confidential service that notifies Canadian citizens outside the country of an emergency abroad or at home.