Japan heatwave: How many people has sweltering temperatures killed? How hot is it?

Man resting in Tokyo in heat

Temperatures have soared in Japan and residents are struggling to cope (Image: REUTERS)

Officials are warning residents in Japan to take precautions during the hottest heatwave in five years. 

More than 10,000 people have been taken to hospital due to heat stroke-related symptoms according to The Japan Times. 

Tokyo fire department reported that rescue teams on June 19 responded to more than 3,000 emergency calls with 317 people taken to hospital. 

Students who have been taking part in activities outside have been affected by scorching temperatures, with some taken to hospital showing signs of exhaustion and heatstroke. 

Flights have faced delays due to the sweltering temperatures, with a runway at Tokyo’s Haneda airport weakening and caving in under the heat.

How hot is it in Japan?

Kyoto City has had temperatures reach above 38C for seven days straight, the longest since records began in the 19th Century. 

In Central Japan temperatures peaked at 40.7C. 

Japan’s Meteorological Agency has predicted that high temperatures could last until August 2. 

The temperatures are causing concern for the 2020 Olympics which are being held in Tokyo in the summer months. 

Whilst hot locations for the Olympics are nothing new, Japan’s combination of scorching heat and smothering humidity can be a deadly combination. 

How many people have died?

The death toll currently stands at 30 people, with 10 deaths reported on Thursday, June 19 alone. 

Man with a fan in the heat

Residents are being warned to keep hydrated (Image: REUTERS)

A six-year-old boy died on June 17 after taking part in a lesson outside. 

This tragedy led to the education ministry advising schools across the country to enact preventive measures. 

The hot weather will reportedly continue, with Accuweather predicting the death toll will continue to rise. 

“AccuWeather estimates the death toll from Japan heatwave is likely already in the hundreds despite the official toll of somewhat more than two dozen, and we predict the number will climb into the thousands before the heatwave ends,” AccuWeather President and Founder Dr Joel N. Myers said.

Woman using an icepack to cool down

The humidity mixed with the heat makes for a lethal combination (Image: REUTERS)

A six-year-old boy died on June 17 after taking part in a lesson outside. 

This tragedy led to the education ministry advising schools across the country to enact preventive measures. 

The hot weather will reportedly continue, with Accuweather predicting the death toll will continue to rise. 

“AccuWeather estimates the death toll from Japan heatwave is likely already in the hundreds despite the official toll of somewhat more than two dozen, and we predict the number will climb into the thousands before the heatwave ends,” AccuWeather President and Founder Dr Joel N. Myers said.

“The actual total human toll may not ever be known as heat-related fatality reports are historically underdone since not all deaths are correctly attributed to heat and some result from accelerating serious health issues and the fatalities show up weeks later.

“The elderly and those with pre-existent conditions, such as asthma and heart failure, are likely to face declining health due to exacerbation of their conditions due to weather.

“Heat exhaustion and stroke, dehydration, migraines, loss of sleep and mood alteration can all occur due to dangerous heat.

Japan Meteorological Agency advises resident to take appropriate measures such as: 

  • Drinking water frequently and replenishing salt lost as a result of sweating
  • Blocking direct sunlight using curtains
  • Using air conditioners appropriately

They also warn for people to be cautious outside, and make sure the elderly, infants and those who are unwell remain hydrated and out of direct sunlight where possible.