3 cities in Japan top 40C, first time in kokushobi category
Heatstroke alerts expanded as 287 people were taken to hospitals in Tokyo the same day.
Three cities in Japan entered the "kokushobi" category for the first time, a new term for days when temperatures reach 40 degrees Celsius. On Tuesday, the Japan Meteorological Agency recorded Tajimi in Gifu Prefecture at 40.3C, Gujo in Gifu at 40C, and Toyoda in Aichi Prefecture at 40.1C. The extreme heat was driven by a high-pressure system that has covered much of Japan since Sunday. Of 914 observation points, 731 reported maximum temperatures of at least 30C and 272 fell into the "moshobi" category, or extreme heat. Authorities warned of heatstroke risks and urged residents to use air conditioning, drink enough water, take in salt and limit outdoor activity. In Tokyo, 287 people were taken to hospital with suspected heatstroke.