Tokyo: Six people in Tokyo have tragically died from heatstroke as an unprecedented heatwave scorches Japan during the typically cooler rainy season. Authorities in Japan issued extreme heat warnings after the temperature reached 40C for the first time this year on Sunday, as the country swelters in the grip of another heatwave.
Japan’s meteorological agency has issued a heatstroke alert for 26 of the country’s 47 prefectures, urging people not to go outside unless necessary, to use their air conditioners during the day and at night, and to drink plenty of water.
Over the weekend, the central Shizuoka region became the first in Japan to see temperatures hit 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) this year. This is far above the 35-degree threshold considered "extremely hot" by weather officials.
Experts attribute the severe heat to a strong South Pacific high-pressure system. Local media reported that observation posts in Tokyo and the southern Wakayama region also recorded near-record highs of 40 degrees Celsius on Monday.
Authorities issue heatstroke alerts
The extreme heat has prompted authorities to issue heatstroke alerts across much of the country. Residents are urged to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity outdoors, and use air conditioning whenever possible.
Tokyo has been particularly affected, with three heatstroke deaths reported on Saturday and another three on Monday. The city's medical examination office confirmed these fatalities, which occurred despite daytime temperatures hovering around 35 degrees Celsius.
Heatstroke risk for vulnerable populations
Heatstroke is a particular threat in Japan, which has the world's second-oldest population after Monaco. Elderly residents are especially vulnerable.
Health experts have identified infants, people living alone, and those who cannot afford air conditioning as other high-risk groups.
The Japanese Association for Acute Medicine reported a worrying rise in heat exhaustion deaths nationwide, jumping from a few hundred per year two decades ago to around 1,500 in 2022.
The association compared the heatstroke danger to a "major natural disaster" and advised against non-essential outings.
Impact on daily life
The heatwave is impacting daily life for many in Japan. People now try to work remotely whenever possible to avoid going outside. Tourists are also adapting their plans.
As summers become increasingly hot globally, Japan's heatwave serves as a stark reminder of the health risks and the need for adaptation.