Key Facts
• July 21 marked the season’s highest number of locations recording summer-like temperatures.
• Over 830 locations, or 90% of Japan, experienced summer temperatures on July 21.
• Four locations, including Ibaraki and Fukushima, recorded temperatures above 38°C.
• A mother drowned in Aomori on July 20 while retrieving a ball from a river.
• On July 21, a young boy drowned in Aichi, and a 17-year-old male went missing and later died in Wakayama.
• Additional drowning incidents occurred in Mie (19-year-old male) and Sendai (60s male surfer).
• Fukushima City recorded a sudden hailstorm and 100mm of rain within an hour on July 21.
• The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a record-breaking short-term heavy rain warning.
• Extreme heat is expected to persist beyond July 22, with risks of sudden weather changes.
Summary
Japan experienced record-breaking heat during the long weekend, with over 830 locations recording summer temperatures on July 21. Four areas, including Fukushima, exceeded 38°C. The heat drove many to beaches, but water accidents surged, resulting in multiple fatalities, including a mother in Aomori, a young boy in Aichi, and others in Wakayama, Mie, and Sendai. Additionally, Fukushima City faced sudden weather changes, including a hailstorm and 100mm of rain in an hour. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued warnings for heavy rain. The extreme heat and unstable weather are expected to continue, prompting caution for outdoor activities near water bodies.
