Japan records first-ever "cruelly hot day" as temperatures top 40°C

Three locations in central Japan saw temperatures climb to 40 degrees Celsius or above on July 21, marking the country’s first officially designated "kokushobi," or "cruelly hot day," according to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA).

As an intense heatwave swept across much of the country, temperatures reached 40.3 degrees Celsius in Tajimi and 40.0 degrees Celsius in Gujo, both in Gifu Prefecture, while Toyoda in neighbouring Aichi Prefecture recorded 40.1 degrees Celsius, Caliber.Az reports via Xinhua.

The JMA introduced the term "kokushobi" in April to identify days when temperatures hit 40 degrees Celsius, aiming to strengthen public awareness and warnings during periods of extreme heat.

By 3 p.m. local time, 731 of Japan’s 914 weather observation stations had registered highs of at least 30 degrees Celsius. Among them, 272 locations met the criteria for a "moshobi," or "extremely hot day," excluding areas categorised separately as "kokushobi."

Meteorologists said the hot conditions are likely to persist across many regions beyond July 22 and called on residents to remain vigilant and take measures to prevent heat-related illnesses.

By Jeyhun Aghazada