Overview
- The five-day streak, which culminated on Saturday, July 25, was the longest run of 40°C (104°F) or higher readings on record in Japan.
- Multiple cities exceeded 40°C on July 25, with highs of 40.8°C in Mino, 40.7°C in Tajimi, 40.6°C in Kuwana and 40.0°C in Kofu, the last marking the first kokushobi outside the Tokaido region this year.
- The Japan Meteorological Agency introduced the 40°C warning category called kokushobi in April to flag days of exceptionally dangerous heat and urge public vigilance.
- Emergency services have been overwhelmed: the Fire and Disaster Management Agency reported about 10,857 heat-related ambulance transports during the week of July 13–19 with 14 deaths, and Tokyo logged a record 453 heatstroke transports on July 22.
- Scientists say human-caused climate change is raising the odds of such extreme heat, and authorities warn residents to use air conditioning, stay hydrated and avoid outdoor exertion while watching for secondary hazards like heavy rain and flooding in other regions.