TOKYO - Japan experienced its hottest July on record, with the nationwide average temperature exceeding the standard by 2.89°C, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. This marks the third consecutive year of record-breaking July temperatures, and the second straight month of record highs following June.
The agency reported that the average temperature across 15 major observation points from Hokkaido to Okinawa was 2.89°C above the normal July level. This significantly surpassed last year’s previous record of 2.16°C, making it the highest July temperature since statistics began in 1898.
In addition to the heat, precipitation levels in July were unusually low. Rainfall on the Sea of Japan side of the Tohoku region and in the Hokuriku region was the lowest on record for the month, amounting to just 13% and 8% of the average, respectively.
Looking at specific locations, Wajima in Ishikawa Prefecture recorded just 1% of average rainfall, Niigata 2%, Yamagata 4%, and Sendai 10%. In total, 10 observation sites either broke or tied their lowest rainfall records for July.
The Meteorological Agency warned that intense heat is expected to continue for at least another month, particularly from northern to western Japan. It urged the public to stay alert to weather forecasts and heatstroke warnings, and to take preventive measures against heat-related illnesses.
The agency also stated that, given the consecutive record-breaking temperatures in June and July and the forecast for continued high temperatures in August, there is a strong possibility that the average annual temperature in Japan could exceed last year’s all-time high.
Concerns are also growing about the impact of the extreme weather on agriculture. The drought-stricken areas of Tohoku and Hokuriku—both key rice-producing regions—may face negative effects on crop growth, especially rice and other essential produce.
Source: TBS
