Tokyo Logs Record 10 Days Of 35C Or More

Published: Wednesday, August 27, 2025 at 3:30 am

Japan Grapples with Record-Breaking Heat and Extreme Weather

Tokyo has just endured an unprecedented heatwave, with temperatures reaching 35 degrees Celsius or higher for a record-breaking ten consecutive days. This marks the longest such streak since record-keeping began in 1875, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. The extreme heat follows the country's hottest June and July on record, dating back to 1898.

The nation is also experiencing other severe weather events. A town on the northern island of Hokkaido received a month's worth of rainfall in just 12 hours, leading to flooding. In western Yamaguchi prefecture, hundreds of households were urged to evacuate due to the risk of landslides.

This year, Japan recorded its highest-ever temperature, reaching 41.8 degrees Celsius. Public health officials are urging residents to seek refuge in air-conditioned spaces to avoid heatstroke, particularly the elderly, who are at higher risk. Last week alone, over 8,400 people were hospitalized due to heat-related illnesses, with 12 fatalities.

The impact of the warming climate is evident in other ways. Experts note that Japan's iconic cherry trees are blooming earlier or not fully blossoming due to warmer autumns and winters. The snowcap on Mount Fuji was absent for an extended period last year.

These extreme weather patterns are consistent with global trends. The United Nations has warned that rising global temperatures are negatively impacting worker health and productivity, especially in sectors like agriculture and construction. The UN reports that worker productivity decreases by two to three percent for every degree above 20 degrees Celsius. Health risks associated with extreme heat include heatstroke, dehydration, and neurological disorders.

BNN's Perspective:

The situation in Japan underscores the urgent need for both global climate action and local adaptation strategies. While the scientific consensus on climate change is clear, the specific impacts and the speed of change vary regionally. It is crucial to support both mitigation efforts to reduce emissions and adaptation measures to protect vulnerable populations and infrastructure from the effects of extreme weather.

Keywords: Japan, heatwave, extreme weather, climate change, temperature, record, flooding, landslides, heatstroke, elderly, Mount Fuji, cherry trees, worker productivity, United Nations

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