Japan experienced its hottest summer on record, tying the previous record set in 2023, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. The average temperature during the three-month period from June to August was 1.76 degrees Celsius higher than the average recorded between 1991 and 2020. To calculate the nation’s average temperatures, the agency uses 15 observation points that exclude urban hot spots which are more likely to be influenced by local conditions.
This summer, Japan has already witnessed a staggering number of “extreme heat“ instances with temperatures reaching or exceeding 35 degrees Celsius. So far, there have been 8,821 such cases reported, surpassing last year’s peak of 6,692 instances. Additionally, out of the total of 914 observation points across the country, a significant number (144) broke or tied their temperature records between June and August.
Some areas even experienced scorching temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius. On July 29th in Sano, Tochigi Prefecture, mercury soared to an alarming high of 41.0 degrees Celsius – tying for third place among various locations with extreme heat readings. It is worth noting that in August last year in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture reached a record-breaking temperature of 41.1 degrees Celsius – matching Kumagaya’s all-time high logged back in July 2018.
As September approaches and with no relief from the heat expected anytime soon, authorities are urging people to take necessary precautions against heatstroke by utilizing air conditioners as needed and staying hydrated.
© KYODO