Japan has recorded its hottest day on record, with temperatures soaring to 41.2 degrees Celsius (106.16 degrees Fahrenheit) in Tamba city, about 560km (350 miles) southwest of Tokyo.
This surpasses the previous high of 41.1 degrees Celsius (105.98 degrees Fahrenheit) set in 2018 and matched again in 2020. The scorching heat has prompted heatstroke alerts in 33 of Japan’s 47 prefectures, with over 10,800 people sent to hospital with heatstroke last week and 16 heat-related deaths reported.
The Japan Meteorological Agency confirmed the record-breaking temperature, which was observed at 2:39 p.m. in Tamba city, Hyogo Prefecture. Other cities, including Fukuchiyama in Kyoto Prefecture, Maniwa city in Okayama Prefecture, and Nishiwaki city in Hyogo Prefecture, also recorded temperatures of 40 degrees or higher. This extreme weather event is the latest example of the country’s struggle with climate change.
Japan has been experiencing a trend of constantly increasing temperatures, with the past five years ranking among the top six hottest years ever recorded. Last month, the country sweltered through its hottest June on record, with the average nationwide temperature rising 2.34 degrees Celsius (36.21 degrees Fahrenheit) above normal.
Furthermore, Japan experienced its hottest year ever in 2024, with the average temperature breaking records for a second straight year. The average temperature in 2024 was 1.48 degrees centigrade warmer than the average value in the 30-year period up to 2020.
The heatwave has had a significant impact on the country, with thousands of people seeking medical attention for heat-related illnesses. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, countries like Japan are experiencing more frequent and severe heatwaves. The situation highlights the need for increased awareness and measures to mitigate the effects of climate change.
The extreme heat has also raised concerns about the impact of climate change on Japan’s infrastructure and public health. As the country grapples with the challenges of rising temperatures, authorities are urging residents to take precautions and stay safe during the heatwave.