Record heatwave in Tokyo: 10th consecutive day at 35°C or higher, a first since 1875.
Tokyo’s Record-Breaking Heat Wave
On Wednesday, Tokyo recorded its 10th consecutive day of temperatures equal to or exceeding 35°C, setting a new historical high since weather observations began in 1875, as reported by the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA).
This record surpasses the previous one established in 2022, when the Japanese capital experienced nine consecutive days of extreme heat.
In response to this extraordinary heat wave, authorities are urging the public to take precautions. It is highly recommended to use air conditioning moderately, stay hydrated regularly, and limit outdoor activities to prevent heat-related illnesses.
The JMA also warned of potential strong atmospheric instability starting in the afternoon, caused by a combination of very humid air and high temperatures. Intense, localized rainfall and severe thunderstorms are expected in both the eastern and western parts of the country.
This heat episode is anticipated to ease by Thursday, with temperatures dropping below 35°C. However, it is part of a series of extreme weather phenomena that have affected 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 in just twelve hours, setting a local record, according to NHK. Earlier in August, the city of Kirishima in the southwest recorded 500 mm of rainfall in 24 hours, which is double the average monthly amount.
It is noteworthy that the summers of 2023 and 2024 have been the hottest ever recorded in the archipelago, tied for the highest, while the autumn of 2024 has also marked the warmest since records began.
