Japan hits scorching 41.2°C record

Record Heat Sweeps Japan

Tokyo and Kyoto have topped the temperature record with 41.2 °C and 40 °C – the highest readings since observations began. The swelter follows a powerful earthquake in Far East Russia, raising tsunami alerts.

Nationwide Temperature Spikes

• On Wednesday Hyogo’s western region hit 41.2 °C, surpassing the 41.1 °C peak in Hamamatsu (2020) and Kumagaya (2018).
• Kyoto saw 40 °C for the first time at any of its observation points, the oldest opened in 1880 and the newest in 2002.
• Last year’s summer was the joint hottest on record, while autumn reached the warmest level in 126  years.

Heatwave‑Related Hospitalizations

• At 322 of 914 nationwide stations the temperature hit 35 °C or higher.
• New highs were set in 38 locations, including Gujo (Gifu) at 39.8 °C.
• Japanese authorities issued heatstroke warnings across the archipelago.

Health Impact

• Last week, 10 804 people were hospitalized for heatstroke – the highest weekly count this year.
• Sixteen deaths were reported by the Fire and Disaster Management Agency.
• Japan’s elderly population is particularly vulnerable, prompting officials to encourage air‑cooled shelter.

Global Heatwave Context

• Western Europe logged its hottest June ever, with temperatures soaring to 40–46 °C in Spain and Portugal.
• Climate‑change studies estimate an extra 4 °C rise, pushing many regions into deadly heat.
• Millions faced high heat stress earlier in the summer than ever before.

With heatwaves projected to continue, the Japan Meteorological Agency warns of a “significant” temperature rise in the north and east, urging the public to safeguard their health and avoid heatstroke.