Record-breaking heat scorched Japan on Saturday, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in multiple locations, prompting widespread heatstroke alerts adn warnings of potential landslides and flooding.
The intense heatwave,caused by a persistent high-pressure system covering the archipelago,marks an unprecedented period of extreme temperatures for the nation. This year has already seen eight days where temperatures reached or surpassed 40°C, surpassing the previous annual record set in 2018. The escalating temperatures pose significant risks to public health, especially for the elderly and those with underlying health conditions, and strain infrastructure across the country.Forecasts indicate the scorching conditions will persist for approximately one week.
Kuwana City in Mie Prefecture registered the highest temperature of 40.5°C, closely followed by hatoyama in Saitama Prefecture at 40.3°C. Major cities also experienced extreme heat, with Nagoya reaching 39.1°C, central Tokyo 38.5°C, Kyoto 38.0°C, and Osaka 36.1°C. Central Tokyo, Nagoya, and Chiba each recorded their highest temperatures of the year.Beyond the heat, unstable atmospheric conditions developed in the Kyushu and Chugoku regions Saturday evening, resulting in heavy rainfall. Kusu Town, Oita Prefecture, recorded 92 millimeters of rain within a single hour ending at 5 p.m. authorities cautioned residents about the risk of landslides, overflowing rivers, and localized flooding. Additionally, the possibility of lightning strikes, tornadoes, and hailstorms was noted.
Officials are urging the public to take preventative measures, including the appropriate use of air conditioning, sufficient hydration with fluids and salt, and frequent rest breaks during outdoor activities. Heatstroke alerts are currently in effect for 28 prefectures nationwide.
