Japan sweltered under intense heat on July 21, with temperatures soaring past 40°C in multiple regions due to a dominant high-pressure system. This marks the ninth consecutive year the country has faced such extreme temperatures, showcasing a growing trend of blistering summers.
The term “kokushobi,” or “cruelly hot days,” was recently introduced in April by Japanese authorities to label days when temperatures exceed 40°C. On this particular day, the city of Tajimi in Gifu Prefecture recorded a scorching 40.3°C, the highest in the country. Nearby Gujo experienced 40°C, while in Toyota, Aichi Prefecture, the thermometer hit 40.1°C.
Across Japan, the heatwave’s reach was extensive, with 255 of the nation’s 914 weather observation stations reporting temperatures of at least 35°C by mid-afternoon. This widespread rise in temperatures across both eastern and western regions underscores the severity of the heatwave affecting the country.
In light of the dangerous heat levels, Japan’s Environment Ministry, alongside the Japan Meteorological Agency, issued heatstroke alerts for 42 prefectures, the highest number of such alerts this year. Authorities strongly advised residents to use air conditioning, maintain adequate hydration, and replenish their salt intake to prevent heat-related health issues.