Is Japan Facing a Heatstroke Crisis in 19 Prefectures?
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Synopsis
As Japan grapples with a heatwave, heatstroke alerts have been declared in 19 prefectures, including central Tokyo. With soaring temperatures reaching above 38 degrees Celsius, health officials urge the public to take precautions. What measures are being recommended to combat this alarming situation?
Key Takeaways
- Heatstroke alerts have been issued in 19 prefectures.
- Central Tokyo and Kanagawa face their first alerts of the season.
- Daytime temperatures reached up to 38.3 degrees Celsius.
- Stay hydrated and use air conditioning as needed.
- Potential thunderstorms and unstable atmospheric conditions are on the horizon.
Tokyo, July 6 (NationPress) Japan's meteorological authority announced on Sunday that heatstroke alerts have been issued across 19 prefectures, marking this season's first warning for central Tokyo and Kanagawa, as extremely high temperatures enveloped much of the nation.
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) indicated that a high-pressure system is set to dominate western Japan and other regions, resulting in predominantly sunny and hot conditions on Sunday.
Nationwide, daytime temperatures reached the mid-to high-30s, with readings of 38.3 degrees Celsius in Kuwana, Mie Prefecture, 37.9 degrees Celsius in Toyota, Aichi Prefecture, and 37.7 degrees Celsius in Tajimi, Gifu Prefecture, as well as Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture, and Kofu, Yamanashi Prefecture, according to the JMA.
Weather officials recommended individuals to utilize air conditioning as necessary, stay hydrated with liquids and salt, and take regular breaks when working outdoors, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
As of 3 p.m. local time on Sunday, the Tokyo Fire Department reported that 28 individuals, aged between 9 and 89, had been transported to hospitals for suspected heatstroke symptoms.
The JMA warned that dangerously hot conditions are expected to persist into Monday, urging the public to maintain rigorous precautions against heatstroke.
Japan recorded its hottest June in history since records began in 1898, with the average monthly temperature exceeding the norm by 2.34 degrees Celsius, according to JMA data.
This alert marks the first of the season for both Tokyo and Kanagawa, as noted by local news outlets.
Citizens are advised to use air conditioning as required, stay hydrated with liquids and salt, and take frequent rests when outside.
Furthermore, atmospheric instability is anticipated, particularly in mountainous regions of western and eastern Japan, due to rising temperatures and humidity. Weather officials warn of potential localized thunderstorms and advise caution against lightning strikes, strong winds, and hail.
According to a local news agency, global warming has contributed to rising air temperatures worldwide, indicating that the intensified Pacific high-pressure system extending toward Japan and the shifting westerly winds have led to an early conclusion of the rainy season, which typically lasts until mid-July.
Point of View
The alarming rise in temperatures and the issuance of heatstroke alerts highlight the urgent need for public awareness and preparation. As Japan faces unprecedented weather challenges, it's essential for citizens to heed the advice of health officials and stay safe during these extreme conditions.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas in Japan are under heatstroke alerts?
Heatstroke alerts have been issued in 19 prefectures, including central Tokyo and Kanagawa.
What precautions should people take during this heatwave?
Officials advise using air conditioning, staying hydrated with liquids and salt, and taking regular breaks when outdoors.
What were the highest temperatures recorded?
The highest temperatures recorded include 38.3 degrees Celsius in Kuwana, Mie Prefecture.
What is causing the extreme heat in Japan?
The rise in temperatures is attributed to a high-pressure system covering western Japan and global warming effects.
What can we expect in the upcoming days?
Dangerously hot weather is expected to continue, with warnings for potential localized thunderstorms.
