Heat waves strike at the 25th World Scout Jamboree being held in South Korea

Hundreds of scouts and participants suffer from heat exhaustion at World Scout Jamboree in South Korea!

Around 43,000 people from 158 countries are currently taking part in the World Scout Jamboree – known as the world’s largest youth camp.

Of the 43,000 participants at the 25th World Scout Jamboree, at least 600 have been treated for heat-related illness.

Local media reported that scouts from the United States, Britain, Belgium, Bangladesh, Colombia, Poland, and Sweden were affected by the heat.

“Most of them were experiencing mild symptoms, such as headache, dizziness, and nausea and all returned to their campsites,” a fire official in North Jeolla province, southwest of Seoul, told reporters.

By the end of the first day, Tuesday, officials had counted at least 400 patients who needed treatment for heat-related symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and exhaustion.

On Wednesday, a further 207 heat-related cases emerged.

Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo ordered 30 military physicians and 60 nurses to go to the camp to handle emergencies, his office said.

It was reported Earlier that South Korean Interior and Safety Minister Lee Sang-min called for more ambulances, shuttle buses, and air conditioners to remain on standby.

This year, the event is being held in North Jeolla province where a heatwave warning has been issued, with temperatures hovering at about 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) daily.

Multiple emergency alerts sent to phones in the area have advised people to refrain from outdoor activities.

The heatwave is estimated to have killed at least 23 people across the country, more than triple the record of seven during the same period last year.

The scouting jamboree runs until 12 August.

While South Korea’s weather agency expects the heatwave to last until next week.

As reported, during the opening ceremony of the jamboree on Wednesday night, 108 people suffered from heat-related illnesses and exhaustion and were taken to the hospital.

The event was also attended by Korea’s president, Yoon Suk Yeol, as well as chief scout and celebrity survivalist Bear Grylls.

Some of the participants also shared the updates on social media:

The conditions are challenging with a high humidity and temperatures exceeding 35, mosquitos not shying away, and partial flooding on site… it’s all hands on deck from the world scouting community to deliver an awesome Jamboree!
2/3

— 28th Glasgow Scout Group (@giffnockscouts) August 2, 2023

World Scout Jamboree leader criticises event’s organisation amid heatwave, food shortage and censorship. 600 scouts affected by extreme heat, some having dessert for lunch. Bear Grylls urges calm. #ScoutJamboree #Heatwave #BearGrylls

— Dejan (@DejanGeorgievs6) August 4, 2023