Japan endured a scorching heatwave on July 21, with temperatures soaring past 40°C in multiple regions due to a powerful high-pressure system. This marks the ninth straight year the country has faced such extreme heat levels, illustrating a troubling trend in rising temperatures.
This intense heatwave is the first instance of temperatures exceeding 40°C since the term “kokushobi,” or “cruelly hot days,” was officially introduced in April to describe such extreme conditions. The city of Tajimi in Gifu Prefecture recorded the day’s highest temperature at a blistering 40.3°C, while Gujo in the same prefecture and Toyota in Aichi Prefecture reported temperatures reaching 40°C and 40.1°C, respectively.
The sweltering conditions were widespread, with 255 out of Japan’s 914 weather observation stations reporting temperatures of at least 35°C by mid-afternoon. This highlights the extensive reach of the heatwave across both eastern and western parts of the nation.
In light of the oppressive heat, the Environment Ministry together with the Japan Meteorological Agency issued heatstroke alerts covering 42 prefectures, the highest number of warnings released this year. Officials have urged individuals to rely on air conditioning, maintain hydration, and replenish salt levels to ward off heat-related health issues.