South Korea’s weather agency on Friday lifted all heat wave advisories that were issued throughout much of the country, marking an end to the sweltering weather that lasted for up to 21 days.

The advisories, some of which were first issued on July 20, have been lifted as of Friday 4 a.m., as temperatures are expected to drop with a forecast of rain showers in most parts, the Korea Meteorological Administration said.

Southern regions below the Chungcheong provinces in particular will experience heavy showers accompanied by lightning and thunder, according to the KMA.

The maximum temperatures on Friday are expected to fall to average highs, with the mercury forecast to reach 30 C in Seoul and Daegu, and 29 C in Daejeon and Gwangju, respectively, the KMA said.

Weather forecasts said although temperatures during the weekend will once again hover above 30 C, the weather will likely return to normal levels early next week. (Yonhap News)