Much of Japan remains in the grip of a severe heatwave, with temperatures surging to nearly 39 degrees Celsius on Tuesday in Kyushu region, western Japan.
The Japan Meteorological Agency says temperatures soared in wide areas, particularly the eastern and western parts of the country, under a high pressure system.
Kyushu saw some of the hottest temperatures, with daytime highs hitting 38.7 degrees in Yatsushiro, Kumamoto Prefecture, and 38.3 degrees in Hita, Oita Prefecture.
In Dazaifu, Fukuoka Prefecture, the mercury climbed to 37. 8 degrees. Temperatures in the city have reached at least 35 degrees for a record 33 days in a row.
That is the longest period since the agency began its observations, far exceeding the previous record of 24 days set by the western city of Takahashi in Okayama Prefecture in 2020.
Experts say an extended period with temperatures of 35 degrees or higher is one characteristic of this summer’s heat in Japan.
Agency officials expect the mercury will top 35 degrees until Thursday in eastern Japan and through Saturday in western parts of the country.
The agency and the Environment Ministry issued heatstroke alerts for 19 prefectures from the central region of Tokai to Kyushu.
The officials advise people to refrain from unnecessary outings and exercise, use air conditioners as appropriate, and to take adequate water and salt.