Tokyo residents have been urged to remain vigilant against heatstroke as high temperatures persist into August. Japanese authorities reported on Tuesday that over 120 people succumbed to heatstroke in Tokyo during July, a grim consequence of a record-breaking heatwave that gripped the nation. Throughout the month, Japan’s average temperature reached unprecedented highs, prompting heat warnings to be issued across the country.
According to the Tokyo Medical Examiner’s Office, a significant portion of the 123 heatstroke fatalities were elderly individuals. Tragically, nearly all of these deaths occurred indoors, with the majority of victims found deceased despite having air conditioners installed in their homes. Despite repeated advice from Japanese health authorities and weather forecasters urging people to stay cool, consume ample fluids to prevent dehydration, and utilize air conditioning, many elderly individuals, concerned about perceived health risks associated with air conditioning, opted to avoid its use.
This July’s death toll marked the highest number of heatstroke fatalities in Tokyo’s 23 metropolitan districts since 2018, when 127 deaths were recorded during a particularly intense heatwave. Further evidence of the heatwave’s severity is reflected in the Fire and Disaster Management Agency’s data, revealing that over 37,000 individuals sought treatment at hospitals for heat-related ailments between July 1st and 28th.
July’s average temperature, exceeding the past 30-year average by 2.16 degrees Celsius, shattered records dating back to 1898, the year the Japan Meteorological Agency began keeping records. As of Tuesday, heatstroke warnings remained in effect across much of eastern and western Japan. In downtown Tokyo, where temperatures climbed to approximately 34 degrees Celsius, many residents sought relief from the sweltering heat, carrying parasols or handheld fans.
“I feel every year the hot period is getting longer,” remarked Hidehiro Takano, a resident of Kyoto. “I have the air conditioner on all the time, including while I’m sleeping. I try not to go outside.” Maxime Picavet, a French tourist visiting Tokyo, showcased a portable fan he had purchased to combat the heat. “It works very, very well,” he said. “With this temperature, it’s a necessity.”
The meteorological agency has forecast continued heat in August, with temperatures expected to reach or surpass 35 degrees Celsius. In a statement, the agency urged the public to pay close attention to temperature forecasts and take necessary precautions to prevent heatstroke.
