Seven locations across Japan recorded temperatures of 40°C or higher on Thursday [1].
This extreme heat follows an early end to the rainy season and a strong summer heat wave that has pushed temperatures to record levels across the country [3]. The spike in heat poses significant risks to public health and infrastructure in densely populated regions.
The highest temperature was recorded in Sakuma, Shizuoka, which reached 41.1°C [1]. Other locations that surpassed the 40°C mark included Hamamatsu in Shizuoka, as well as Minō, Tajimi, and Kanayama in Gifu, Toyota in Aichi, and Kuwana in Mie [2].
In the capital, central Tokyo recorded 36.9°C [1]. This mark represents the highest temperature of the year for the city. Tokyo has now endured four consecutive days of "mousho-bi," a term used to describe extremely hot days [1].
The heat wave has been widespread, particularly affecting the Kanto, Tokai, and Kyushu regions [1]. Earlier this week, on July 21, extreme temperatures were also noted in Tajimi at 40.3°C, Toyota at 40.1°C, and Gujō at 40.0°C [3].
Meteorologists expect the intense heat to persist. Forecasts for July 24 indicate that temperatures in Nagoya, Gifu, and Kyoto could reach up to 39°C [1]. Some predictions suggest that between seven and 14 locations nationwide could see temperatures exceed 40°C throughout 2026 [4].
“Seven locations across Japan recorded temperatures of 40°C or higher on Thursday”
The frequency of 'mousho-bi' and the number of sites exceeding 40°C indicate a intensifying summer trend in Japan. The combination of an early rainy season exit and high-temperature peaks in multiple prefectures suggests a broader climatic shift that may strain the national power grid and increase heat-related medical emergencies.
