An institute focusing on heatwave research has opened in South Korea for the first time.
 
The research center opened at the Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology on Monday.
 
The center is one of a number of extreme weather forecast institutes funded by the Korea Meteorological Administration(KMA). The KMA will provide funds of four-point-five billion won to the institute over nine years.
 
The research center will develop heatwave forecasting technology and train weather experts.
 
Heatwave refers to an extended period of abnormally hot weather. It is a natural disaster that can cause casualties and property damage.
 
South Korea issues a heatwave advisory if a maximum temperature of 33 degrees Celsius or higher for more than two days is expected. A heatwave warning is issued for maximum temperature projections of 35 degrees or higher.