Much of Japan faces severe heat this Tuesday afternoon, with temperatures expected to reach 33-35°C across western and eastern regions [2].
These conditions increase the risk of heat-stroke for millions of residents and travelers. The extreme temperatures are expected to intensify further on Wednesday, May 19, 2024 [1].
Forecasters said the severe heat is due to prevailing high-pressure conditions. These systems are expected to maintain high temperatures and elevated humidity across a wide area of the country [2].
In eastern Japan, the weather is expected to be mostly sunny [3]. Tokyo is forecasted to reach a high of 33°C [1]. Other affected areas in the east include Niigata, Nagano, and Matsue [2].
Western Japan will experience similar intensity, with Osaka predicted to reach 34°C [1]. Other high-heat areas include Hiroshima, Fukuoka, and Kagoshima [2]. While some reports suggest cloud cover and rain in western and northern Japan, other forecasts predict widespread sunny intervals [2, 3].
Northern regions will remain cooler but still warm. Sapporo is expected to reach a high of 26°C [1]. The forecast also covers Okinawa, Kyushu, Tohoku, and Hokkaido [2].
Health officials said the public should take precautions against heat-stroke as the heat persists. Several locations are expected to experience "extremely hot days" as the high-pressure system remains stationary [1].
“Temperatures are expected to reach 33-35°C across western and eastern regions”
The rapid onset of high-pressure systems in May indicates an early shift toward summer weather patterns in Japan. The combination of high humidity and temperatures exceeding 33°C creates a significant public health risk, as the body's ability to cool itself through perspiration is diminished in humid conditions.
