Japan issues heatwave warning in 41 prefectures

UNSPLASH ILLUSTRATION/Kirill Petropavlov

JAKARTA - Japan on Wednesday issued a heatwave alert for 41 of the 47 prefectures in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Japan is hit by a continuing heat wave, with a long-lasting high pressure system that has seen temperatures break 40 degrees Celsius for a second day in a row, Japanese public broadcaster NHK said.

It marked the second consecutive day of "kokushobi," or "extremely hot days," a new official designation to help underscore the public warning.

The highest temperature was 40.5 degrees Celsius in Kuwana, Mie Prefecture, followed by 40.1 degrees Celsius in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture, at 14.00 local time.

Several other cities also experienced temperatures above 39 degrees Celsius.

According to the Tokyo Fire Department, 287 people were taken to hospital for suspected heatstroke on Tuesday (21/7).

Residents are urged to use air conditioners, maintain hydration, and consume enough salt. They are also urged to avoid prolonged outdoor activities.

The "kokushobi" category was introduced by the meteorological agency this year for days when temperatures reach 40 degrees Celsius or higher, according to The Japan Times.

Last summer, more than 100,000 people were rushed to hospital with heatstroke.