Overview

• The previous national high of 41.1°C set in 2018 and 2020 was surpassed when the mercury hit 41.2°C in Tanba, Hyogo Prefecture on Wednesday afternoon.
• Several locations including Fukuchiyama in Kyoto and Nishiwaki in Hyogo recorded temperatures of at least 40°C for the first time this year.
• Emergency hospitalizations for heat-related illnesses more than doubled from 5,309 to 10,804 in the week through Sunday, marking the highest weekly total in 2025.
• Heatstroke fatalities reached 16 last week, the highest weekly figure this year as the elderly and residents in cooler regions faced heightened risks.
• The Japan Meteorological Agency has urged proper use of air conditioners and fans and frequent hydration as extreme temperatures are forecast to persist in northern and eastern prefectures.