A series of incidents attributed to a severe heatwave have recently emerged in North Hwanghae province.
Speaking anonymously, a Daily NK source in the province reported on Tuesday that this summer is unusually hot, with many people experiencing symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness. In extreme cases, individuals have lost consciousness, and tragically, some have died.
On Aug. 16, a man in his 60s was found dead in a field in Yeontan county. His family, concerned when he didn’t return home by evening, found him collapsed and lifeless in the field.
While the exact cause of death remains unclear, locals believe that heatstroke may have been the cause.
The source noted that older people, especially those in poor health, are particularly vulnerable in hot weather. The intense heat makes breathing difficult even while standing still and working in the fields has proven fatal for some.
Malnourished children are affected by the heatwave, too
Earlier, on Aug. 13, a 7-year-old child nearly lost his life after collapsing from the heat in Sariwon. The child was playing outside with friends when he suddenly lost consciousness. Fortunately, his friends alerted nearby adults, who provided emergency assistance, reviving the child.
“This child comes from a poor family and has been malnourished, making him very weak,” the source said. “He fainted while playing in the extreme heat, and if help had come even a little later, his life might have been in danger.”
These incidents highlight the ongoing impact of the heatwave in North Korea. The source emphasized that most victims are vulnerable groups like children and older adults, with poor nutrition being a significant contributing factor.