Blazing Summer Festivals: Heatstroke Cases Surge in Japan

Jul 22, 2024 | News On Japan

KYOTO - Japan experienced a scorching heatwave over the first weekend of summer vacation, with temperatures soaring from Okinawa to Hokkaido. Despite comprehensive heatstroke measures at festivals, numerous incidents were reported.

In Hyogo, guerrilla thunderstorms caused severe weather, with intense rain and wind shaking cars and frequent lightning. Meanwhile, Kumagaya in Saitama held its annual Uchiwa Festival in over 40°C heat, emphasizing extensive heatstroke precautions. Despite this, some festival-goers needed medical attention.

Kyoto's Blue Impulse air show captivated spectators despite the 37.3°C heat, and the end of the rainy season brought high temperatures to Hiroshima and Osaka. Sunflowers bloomed in Sayo Town, Hyogo, while children enjoyed summer activities in Fukushima.

A tragic drowning incident occurred at a beach in Saka Town, Hiroshima, where a 13-year-old girl drowned.

Record-breaking heat affected much of Japan, with heatstroke alerts issued for 34 prefectures. Over 800 locations exceeded 30°C, covering about 90% of the country.

In contrast, the Otake Limestone Cave in Akiruno City, Tokyo, offered a cool refuge with temperatures around 11-13°C, attracting many visitors seeking relief from the intense heat.

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