GUNMA, Aug 05 (News On Japan) - In a historic heatwave, the city of Isesaki in Gunma Prefecture recorded a scorching 41.8 degrees Celsius on August 5th, setting a new all-time high for the highest temperature ever observed in Japan.
As of 5 p.m., temperatures in Isesaki remained close to 40°C. At around 2 p.m., the official reading hit 41.8°C, surpassing previous national records. Although the temperature dropped slightly to 39°C by late afternoon, the extreme heat continued to affect the area.
"The heat felt like stepping into a parked car with no air conditioning," said a reporter on the scene. "The sunlight has eased, but the heat rising from the ground is relentless."
In response to the soaring temperatures, a record-breaking number of heatstroke alerts were issued. A total of 45 areas across 44 prefectures were placed under a "Heatstroke Alert"—the largest such coverage since the system was introduced.
Authorities warn that the severe heat is expected to persist into the night across the Kanto region, urging residents to remain vigilant against heat-related illnesses.
Source: TBS