Japan has recorded its first "kokushobi," or "cruelly hot day," as temperatures in multiple cities surpassed 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) introduced the term in April to specifically warn the public about days reaching this extreme heat threshold.
On Tuesday, the cities of Tajimi, Gujo, and Toyoda registered temperatures at or above 40C. The JMA anticipates this intense heatwave will persist into the following week. This event follows a pattern of increasingly severe weather, including heatwaves, globally. Last year, Japan experienced its highest recorded temperature at 41.8C in Isesaki.
Previously, Japan had terms for days exceeding 25C, 30C, and 35C, with days over 35C known as "moshobi," or "extremely hot days." The introduction of "kokushobi" signifies a higher level of concern for dangerous heat.
According to Kyodo News, nearly 300 out of 914 observation points across the country registered "moshobi" temperatures on Tuesday. In response to the escalating heat, authorities have issued heatstroke alerts in more than 40 prefectures. Public advisories include recommendations to use air conditioning, stay hydrated by drinking water and consuming salt, and to limit time spent outdoors.
The Tokyo Fire Department reported that 287 individuals, ranging in age from three to 103, were transported to hospitals on Tuesday due to suspected heatstroke, marking the highest number of such incidents this year, as reported by national broadcaster NHK. The department also issued an ambulance overload alert on Wednesday, reiterating the need for public self-protection measures.
Japan's summers have been growing hotter and more hazardous. A report by Kyodo indicated that a record 1,803 workplace heatstroke incidents occurred last year, resulting in 19 fatalities. In an effort to mitigate the impact of the heat, the Tokyo metropolitan government has encouraged office workers to adopt more casual attire, such as T-shirts and shorts, as an alternative to traditional suits and ties.