Japan heatwave: SCORCHING temperatures and thousands ill – Why is the heatwave so deadly?

Record-breaking temperatures have lasted for nearly a week, with the mercury reaching 38C or higher in parts of Japan. 

The heatwave is thought to be lasting until at least the end of the month, with temperatures soaring every day. 

Cities seem to be worst hit, with officials in Tokyo reporting more than 3,000 emergency calls in 24 hours – a single day record. 

Japan’s meteorological agency has issued advice for residents, urging them to stay hydrated. 

Avoiding outdoor exercise and seeking medical attention as soon as any symptoms of heatstroke appear is also crucial. 

More than 12,000 people have attended hospital due to heat-related concerns in the first two weeks of July according to official figures. 

In Kyoto, records have been broken as the mercury measured above 38C for seven consecutive days. 

This is the longest it has been so warm since records began. 

A six-year-old boy is the youngest person to have died due to the heatwave. 

He took part in a school outing in the boiling hot weather and died of heatstroke. 

Officials have warned schools to postpone outdoor activities until after the heatwave has subsided. 

AccuWeather President and Founder Dr Joel N. Myers said: “AccuWeather estimates the death toll from Japan heat wave 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 heat wave ends,”

“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. 

“Historical data shows that more people are likely to be involved in vehicle crashes due to heat-related impacts, such as decreased ability to concentrate, the poor quality of sleep they get and impaired mood, etc.”

Humidity levels will make the temperatures feel like between 38 and 43C during midday and afternoon this week.  

High temperatures in Tokyo usually range from 29C to 31C so this level of heat is unprecedented. 

The hot conditions are making rescue efforts following the recent flooding in Japan dangerous for relief workers. 

The flooding less than a month ago killed more than 200 people, due to landslides and flooding caused by intense rainfall. 

The clean up following that disaster continues, with some 4,500 people living in emergency shelters.