Tokyo recorded an unprecedented 10 days straight with temperatures soaring above 35C, as reported by the weather office on Wednesday. This heatwave comes after Japan endured its hottest June and July on record.
Experts attribute the increasing intensity and frequency of heatwaves worldwide, including in Japan, to human-induced climate change.
The Japan Meteorological Agency, speaking to AFP, noted that this is the first instance since records began in 1875 of such a prolonged heat period, with Wednesday marking the 10th consecutive day.
In Tokyo, both locals and tourists are finding it challenging to cope with the oppressive heat.
“Even a short walk outside makes me sweat excessively,” shared Haruka Fujii.
“When running errands, I stick to the shade and use a parasol,” she added.
Aiko Natsume is trying to adjust to the intense heat, saying, “I even visit saunas to acclimate myself.”
This heatwave follows a deluge in Hokkaido’s Toyotomi, where a record rainfall fell on Tuesday, as reported by NHK.
Toyotomi experienced over a month’s worth of rain for August in just 12 hours, according to reports.
In Yamaguchi’s Hagi City, nearly 400 households were advised to evacuate due to landslide risks, NHK reported.
Japan faced its hottest June and July since 1898, and in August, temperatures reached a record 41.8C in Isesaki.
Authorities urge the public to stay in cool, air-conditioned spaces to prevent heatstroke.
Japan’s elderly, forming the world’s second-oldest population, are particularly vulnerable.
Over 8,400 people were hospitalized due to heat-related issues last week, with 12 fatalities, as per the Fire and Disaster Management Agency.
Health and Productivity Effects
Last year’s summer in Japan tied with 2023 as the hottest on record, followed by the warmest autumn in 126 years.
Warmer climates are causing Japan’s cherry trees to bloom earlier or not at all, as autumns and winters lack the necessary chill for flowering.
Mount Fuji’s snowcap was absent longer than ever last year, appearing in November instead of October.
Global temperature increases vary by region, with Europe experiencing the fastest warming per decade since 1990, followed closely by Asia, according to NOAA data.
The UN recently highlighted the worsening health and productivity impacts due to global temperature rises, affecting sectors like agriculture, construction, and fisheries.
UN reports indicate a 2-3% drop in worker productivity for every degree rise above 20C, with health risks including heatstroke, dehydration, kidney issues, and neurological disorders.
