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On the First Day of November, Warmth Matters More Than an Umbrella
It may feel like nothing more than autumn rain in the morning. But once daytime temperatures stay in the teens, the season has already reached winter’s doorstep. Today, November 1, skies will be cloudy nationwide with rain, and it will feel noticeably cooler than yesterday.
Rain will begin in central regions during the morning, then spread to southern regions and Jeju Island in the afternoon. Around 5 mm is expected in the Seoul metropolitan area and Gangwon Province, with 5–10 mm in the Chungcheong region. Southern regions could see up to 40 mm, while Jeju Island may receive a relatively heavy 10–60 mm, so you may need to adjust your plans.
Strong winds may accompany the rain, especially on Jeju Island and along the southern coast. If you’re planning a coastal walk, a boat trip, or air travel, it’s safest to check service updates and weather advisories in advance. At higher elevations in the Gangwon mountains, rain may mix with snow.
Morning lows are forecast to range from 3 to 10°C, with daytime highs between 10 and 18°C. Even in Seoul, temperatures are expected to hover around 13°C, so a light jacket alone may not be enough to keep out the chill. Bring an umbrella, of course—but make room for a waterproof jacket or light coat to help you stay warm.
This isn’t just autumn rain making for a wet day. It’s a seasonal signal of even colder temperatures to come once the rain passes. Dress in layers for the commute to cope with temperature changes, and take it slower than usual on wet sidewalks and roads.
Today’s Weather, Traced by the Rain Clouds
Rain that begins over central Korea this morning will gradually spread southward as the day goes on. Even under the same weather system, rainfall intensity and when the rain lets up will vary by region, so it’s best to check the forecast for your area before making plans to head out or travel.
- Seoul metropolitan area and Gangwon Province: Light rain is expected from the morning, with a possible lull in the afternoon. However, scattered showers may continue into the night. Rainfall will generally be around 5 mm.
- Chungcheong region: As the rain clouds pass through the central region, around 5–10 mm of rain is expected. Bring an umbrella during your commute and watch out for slippery roads.
- Southern regions: Rain will pick up in earnest from the afternoon. Some areas—including Gwangju and South Jeolla Province, as well as Busan, Ulsan, and South Gyeongsang Province—could see up to 40 mm, with downpours developing even over a short period.
- Jeju Island: Jeju will be at the heart of this rain system. A relatively heavy 10–60 mm is expected along the coast, in mid-mountain areas, and in the mountains, with strong winds also possible. It’s a good idea to check flight and ferry schedules in advance.
In parts of the south and on Jeju, rain may continue until the early hours of the 2nd. On Jeju and along the south coast in particular, strong winds and rough seas may persist even after the rain stops. Today, an umbrella alone may not be enough: make room for a waterproof jacket and non-slip shoes, too.
Where Rain and Snow Could Fall Together: Today’s Weather Wildcards
The area to watch most closely today is the mountainous regions of Gangwon Province above 1,200 meters. At higher elevations, where temperatures are lower, rain could turn to snow or sleet. Conditions can feel very different in Gangwon’s cities and its mountain areas, so anyone planning a hike should take extra care.
Mountain trails can become slippery when wet with rain or snow, especially when covered with fallen leaves. Hikers should bring a waterproof, insulated outer layer, slip-resistant hiking boots, and extra warm gear—and check whether any trails are closed.
Jeju Island and the southern coast face a different set of challenges. Relatively heavy rain is expected in Jeju’s mountainous and mid-mountain areas, while strong winds may affect coastal areas. High winds can make umbrellas difficult to use and may also disrupt flights and ferry services.
Today is more than just a “rainy day.” Be prepared for possible snow in Gangwon’s higher mountains, as well as rain and strong winds on Jeju and the southern coast.
Before heading out, check the temperature and precipitation forecast for your destination. If you’re visiting mountain or coastal areas, it’s safest to also check local weather alerts and travel information.
Today’s Weather Is a Sign to Bring Out Your Winter Wardrobe
Today’s rain may be more than a brief autumn shower. Once it passes, temperatures are expected to drop further, and by next week, morning temperatures in some areas could fall to around 0°C. If you’re wondering, “Is it just chilly today?” and insisting on a light autumn jacket, the season may already be shifting toward winter.
Even if daytime temperatures climb into the mid-to-upper teens, it can feel much colder during the morning commute or school run. After the rain, high humidity and wind can make the air feel significantly colder, even at the same temperature. Mornings and evenings are expected to call for warmer options, such as a coat or lightweight padded jacket, rather than a light jacket.
Start Switching Out Your Wardrobe This Weekend
If bringing out all your winter outerwear feels like too much, start by preparing the pieces you’ll wear most often.
- Lightweight padded jackets and wool coats: Useful on days when morning temperatures drop into the single digits.
- Knitwear and fleece-lined tops: Layering several light pieces makes it easier to adjust to daytime temperature changes.
- Scarves and gloves: They may seem premature, but they can make a big difference to how cold you feel on windy days.
- Waterproof outerwear: When rainy weather is frequent, it’s a good idea to look for both warmth and water resistance.
If you drive, it’s also worth checking your ice scraper and cold-weather supplies in advance. In the early morning hours, roads can become slippery when temperatures drop after the rain has left them wet.
Today’s rain isn’t just a reminder to grab an umbrella—it’s a sign that it’s time to shift with the season. This weekend, bring out a coat or two from your winter wardrobe and keep them alongside your autumn jackets. You’ll be much better prepared when the morning chill arrives without warning.
A Winter Readiness Checklist for Changing Weather
On days like today, when it’s raining and temperatures are dropping, an umbrella alone may not be enough. Wet sidewalks and roads can be slippery, and strong winds can make it feel colder than the forecast suggests. Check your everyday essentials now so you can stay safe in today’s rain and be ready for the chilly mornings ahead.
What to Bring Before You Head Out
A sturdy umbrella or waterproof jacket
On windy days, an umbrella with a sturdy frame is a better choice than a compact fold-up one. If you’ll be on the move, a waterproof jacket that leaves both hands free is another good option.Non-slip shoes
Wet leaves and rainwater can be especially dangerous on sidewalks. Wear shoes with good traction, and avoid high heels if possible.A light outer layer and warm base layers
Temperatures can drop quickly after the rain. Bring clothes you can easily layer on or take off, such as a lightweight sweater, a light puffer jacket, or a scarf.
If You Drive, Check These Things Ahead of Time
An ice scraper for your car
Starting next week, morning temperatures in some areas could fall to around 0°C (32°F). Keeping an ice scraper, a window squeegee, and winter windshield washer fluid in your car can save you time on your morning commute.The condition of your tires and wipers
In rainy weather, tire wear directly affects braking performance. If your wipers aren’t clearing the windshield properly, check whether it’s time to replace them.Make a habit of slowing down
Roads don’t dry out right away, even after the rain stops. Puddles and slippery stretches can be hard to see, especially at night, so leave more space between you and the vehicle ahead than usual.
Take Extra Care in Jeju, Along the South Coast, and in Mountainous Areas
Rain, strong winds, and high waves are expected around Jeju Island and the southern coast, so it’s best not to push ahead with coastal walks, fishing trips, or boat travel. Be sure to check flight and ferry updates before you leave.
Rain may mix with snow in the higher mountains of Gangwon Province. If you’re planning a hike, bring waterproof and cold-weather gear, and check trail closures and local weather conditions again before setting out.
A little preparation today can make winter far less troublesome.
Keep an umbrella, waterproof shoes, warm clothing, and an ice scraper for your car close at hand, and you’ll be much better prepared for sudden rain and chilly mornings.
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