Record Heatwave in Tokyo: 10th Consecutive Day at 35°C or Higher, a First Since 1875
Tokyo Hits Record High Temperatures for 10th Consecutive Day
Tokyo recorded a staggering 10th consecutive day of temperatures at or above 35°C this Wednesday, setting a new historical record since weather observations began in 1875, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA).
This record surpasses the previous one from 2022 when the Japanese capital experienced nine straight days of extreme heat.
In light of this unusual heatwave, authorities are urging the public to exercise extreme caution: moderate use of air conditioning, regular hydration, and limiting outdoor activities are strongly advised to prevent heat exhaustion.
The JMA has also issued warnings of significant atmospheric instability expected from the afternoon, caused by a combination of excessively humid air and high temperatures. Intense and localized rainfall, as well as severe thunderstorms, are anticipated in the eastern and western parts of the country.
This heatwave is expected to ease on Thursday, with temperatures dropping below the 35°C mark. However, it forms part of a series of extreme climatic events that have impacted Japan in recent years.
On Tuesday, the city of Toyotomi, located on Hokkaido Island, received the equivalent of a month’s worth of average August rainfall within just twelve hours, breaking a local record, according to NHK. Earlier in August, the city of Kirishima in the southwest recorded 500 mm of rain in 24 hours—twice the average monthly figure.
It’s worth noting that the summers of 2023 and 2024 are tied as the hottest ever recorded in the archipelago, while autumn 2024 has also been identified as the warmest since records began.
