Temperatures are soaring, and experts are sounding the alarm. This summer, Japan is bracing for another wave of scorching heat, with temperatures expected to be significantly higher than usual throughout the peak summer months from June to August.
Get ready for the heat!
Unusually High Temperatures: A Sign of Things to Come
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has already reported record-breaking temperatures in April. Tokyo experienced a remarkable 26.1°C on April 20th, a temperature usually seen in mid-June. Even more alarming, the city of Sano in Tochigi Prefecture reached a scorching 27.9°C on the same day. These unusually high temperatures are a stark reminder of the extreme heat that awaits us in the coming months.
Remember to stay cool and hydrated!
A Nation Under Heatwave Warning
Last summer, the JMA issued a nationwide warning about once-in-a-decade temperatures nearing 40°C. Now, they are predicting similar levels of extreme heat for this summer.
The JMA’s weather map for the period between mid-June and mid-July paints a disturbing picture. The entire Japanese archipelago, from the northern tip of Hokkaido to the southernmost islands of Okinawa, is marked in dark red, indicating a high probability of above-normal temperatures.
Take precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones from the heat.
A Threat to Public Health
The threat of heatstroke is very real, and health experts are urging the public to be extremely cautious. Last summer, a tragic 164 people died from heatstroke in the 23 municipalities of central Tokyo. The majority of these victims were elderly, with 76% aged 70 or older.
Nationwide, over 1,000 people have died every year from heatstroke between 2018 and 2022, with the exception of the relatively cooler summer of 2021.
Heatstroke is a serious health risk, so it is crucial to take steps to prevent it.
New Alert System to Combat Heatstroke
In an effort to reduce the number of heatstroke fatalities, the Japanese government has introduced a new heatstroke alert system. This system will issue warnings in 58 forecast areas across the country whenever the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) heat index is predicted to be 33°C or higher.
The WBGT index provides a clear warning system for the public. When the WBGT is between 21°C and 25°C, people are advised to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Between 25°C and 28°C, regular breaks are recommended. A severe warning is issued when the WBGT is between 28°C and 31°C, urging people to avoid strenuous exercise. Finally, any reading above 31°C is considered “danger,” and the public is strongly advised to avoid all physical activity.
The new heatstroke alert system is a valuable tool for staying informed and safe during the summer months.
Steps to Protect Yourself From Heatstroke
The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has released a comprehensive list of precautions to prevent heatstroke.
These measures include:
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Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water, even if you are not thirsty.
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Using an electric fan or air conditioning indoors to cool your environment.
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Reducing the temperature indoors by pulling curtains or lowering blinds to block out direct sunlight.
The elderly, children, and people with disabilities are particularly vulnerable to heatstroke and require extra attention.
Staying Safe Outside
When you are outside, it is important to:
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Wear a hat or use a parasol to protect yourself from the sun.
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Seek out shady areas to cool down.
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Take regular breaks to rest and rehydrate.
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Wear loose-fitting and light clothing.
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Avoid going outside during peak temperatures.
In extreme cases, don’t hesitate to call an ambulance or go to the hospital.
Stay Informed, Stay Safe
This summer, staying informed about the heatstroke risk is essential. The Ministry of the Environment’s Heat Illness Prevention Information website provides detailed information and updates on the WBGT index and heatstroke alerts.
We all have a responsibility to protect ourselves and each other from the dangers of heatstroke. Be prepared, take precautions, and stay safe this summer.
This public service message was brought to you by the Yokohama Bluff Medical and Dental Clinic: bluffclinic.com
