Japan Endures Its Hottest July in Over a Century

Japan has just witnessed its hottest July on record, according to The Asahi Shimbun. This marks the second consecutive year of unprecedented temperatures for the country. The average July temperature this year soared to 26.22°C, the highest since 1898 when such data was first recorded in Japan’s meteorological history.

Also read: Japan is Considering a Dual Price System That Could Mean Higher Price for Foreign Tourists

Soaring temperatures and climate trends

Image credit: samtillo | Unsplash

The Japanese Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported that July temperatures were 2.16°C higher than average, surpassing last year’s record of 1.91°C above average. This intense heat is attributed to a combination of factors, including a strong high-pressure system in the Pacific Ocean, prevailing winds from the west bringing in warm air, and the impact of global warming on the world.

Precautionary warnings for heatstroke issued

Image credit: JMA | Official Website

In response to the extreme heat, the JMA has issued heatstroke alerts for 38 of Japan’s 47 prefectures. During the week of 22 Jul to 28 Jul, the Japan Fire and Disaster Management Agency (FDMA) recorded 12,666 hospital transports concerning heat-related illnesses. In the Shizuoka prefecture, temperatures exceeded a staggering 40°C, and six people died from heatstroke in Tokyo on 7 Jul. 

Healthcare system under strain

The surge in heat-related illnesses has placed a significant strain on local hospitals. Moreover, several reports have highlighted that the influx of patients has pushed healthcare facilities to their limits. In response, the Japanese Association for Acute Medicine is revising its three-level classification of heatstroke severity to a four-level system, adding a “most severe” category later this year.

A global heatwave phenomenon

Image credit: Ольга Сидорина via Canva Pro

Japan is not alone in facing extreme heat. Around the world, record-breaking temperatures have become increasingly common. In Barcelona, Spain, temperatures reached a peak of 40°C, the highest in at least 110 years. Similarly, Bangkok, Thailand experienced a deadly heatwave in April that claimed 30 lives. The European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service noted that the world saw its hottest day on 21 Jul 2024. According to a study conducted, heat stress alone is estimated to cause nearly half a million deaths annually.

Also read: Japan’s Overtourism: Is It a Double-Edged Sword?

As global temperatures rise, it’s crucial to take precautionary measures to protect yourself from the debilitating effects of heat stress. Understanding how our bodies cope with heat is essential, especially considering factors like age and lifestyle.

Stay safe and stay cool!

Featured image credit: He Who Walks Alone Photography via Canva Pro

Facebook featured image credit: Mlenny (L) and BeritK (R) via Canva Pro