Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido experienced scorching temperatures on Wednesday, with several towns recording their highest temperatures since 1977.
Authorities across the country have issued heatstroke alerts as the mercury soared.
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported that eight towns and one city in Hokkaido saw record-breaking temperatures.
Bihoro town was the island’s hottest spot, hitting an energy-sapping 38.2°C (100.8°F) on Wednesday afternoon.
Officials in nearby Kitami City confirmed they have opened “cooling shelters” for residents, many of whom lack air conditioning.
Record heat hits Hokkaido, Japan warns.
Credit: NDTV
A JMA meteorologist attributed Hokkaido’s extreme heat to clear skies, warm air currents from China, and dry, downslope winds.
Japan’s Environment Ministry has extended a heatstroke alert across a significant portion of the archipelago, including half of Hokkaido. This comes after Japan recorded its hottest June on record, with the average monthly temperature 2.34°C higher than the standard.
Last year’s summer was tied for the hottest on record, followed by the warmest autumn in 126 years, indicating a broader trend of escalating heat waves driven by climate change.
AloJapan.com