Ganghwa County Launches Joint Public-Private-Military Heat Wave Response Water Spraying Operation

[Suwon Ilbo=Reporter Shin Eun-seop] Ganghwa County announced on the 29th that the public, private sector, and military are joining forces to carry out a road water spraying operation to alleviate urban heat island effects caused by the heat wave.

This measure comes as urban heat island phenomena have intensified the sweltering heat, with recent consecutive heat waves causing paved roads, parking lots, and buildings to absorb heat and release it into the surrounding atmosphere.

In response, the county is utilizing five water spray trucks to conduct water spraying operations on major and arterial roads within the county at regular intervals, while the 2nd Marine Division has deployed two military vehicles to carry out operations until the heat wave ends.

Road water spraying is effective in cooling radiant heat from roads, removing fine dust, and preventing road damage. According to the Health and Environment Research Institute, road water cleaning has been reported to reduce temperatures by 6.4℃ on roads and 1.5℃ on surrounding sidewalks.

Meanwhile, the county is regularly inspecting quarantine and cooling systems at heat wave shelters and operating disaster assistance programs and visiting health services for vulnerable populations affected by extreme heat. The county is also installing 60 umbrella-type shade structures at major crosswalks and public facilities, strengthening surveillance activities to prevent heat wave damage, and enhancing public awareness campaigns, concentrating administrative efforts on preventing heat wave damage.

County Governor Yu Cheon-ho stated, “Heat-related illnesses caused by heat waves can be minimized by following basic behavioral guidelines in daily life,” adding, “People should refrain from outdoor activities such as farming during midday hours, and should immediately seek help if they feel any discomfort.”