Japan is going through one of the worst heat waves on record. In Tokyo on a Saturday, the heat exceeded 95 degrees for the eighth day straight, a streak that hasn’t been seen for 187-years. Scorching hot temperatures have sat upon cities across Japan. A city’s temperature passed the 104 mark, nearly breaking the record set only 2 years ago.
Many deaths occurred, and thousands were treated for heat stroke and exhaustion, all somewhat connected to the heat stroke.
Over 4,500 people were taken to the hospital in ambulances, more than 4 times the number of the same period from just a year ago according to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency.
The most vulnerable turned out to be the senior citizens, mostly older than 65.
The authorities have issued daily heat alerts, asking people to stay indoors if possible, not to use heated toilets, and to use umbrellas to protect themselves from the sun. Face masks also trap heat, so it is recommended to not use them even if it protects against covid-19.
Power companies warned the heat would take the grid under strain and said the week would be “extremely difficult.” “ Please save as much power as possible,” the company said. Some offices work in the dark to have the AC running!
Many deaths occurred, and thousands were treated for heat stroke and exhaustion, all somewhat connected to the heat stroke.
Over 4,500 people were taken to the hospital in ambulances, more than 4 times the number of the same period from just a year ago according to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency.
The most vulnerable turned out to be the senior citizens, mostly older than 65.
The authorities have issued daily heat alerts, asking people to stay indoors if possible, not to use heated toilets, and to use umbrellas to protect themselves from the sun. Face masks also trap heat, so it is recommended to not use them even if it protects against covid-19.
Power companies warned the heat would take the grid under strain and said the week would be “extremely difficult.” “ Please save as much power as possible,” the company said. Some offices work in the dark to have the AC running!
