This week, residents in Japan are undergoing a dire heat wave with temperatures reaching over 95 degrees Fahrenheit. In addition to many people falling ill, officials are raising concerns about a potential power shortage, due to constantly running air conditioning and electronic appliances.
Over 4,500 citizens were taken to the hospital due to the intense heat, the majority being people of age 65 or older. According to Japan’s Fire and Disaster Management Agency, this is over four times the number from last year. Temperatures peaked at 95 degrees for eight days straight, a streak never recorded since 1875. In Isesaki, temperatures reached 104 degrees, almost breaking Japan’s nationwide record of 106 degrees.
Events like these are likely linked to the issues of climate change and global warming. People are becoming more aware of the detriments that come with global warming and are urged to take care of their environment. Extreme weather conditions like this show that the Earth is getting warmer as time goes on.
Japan relies on imported liquified natural gases for energy since it shut down its coal and nuclear power plants. With the heat wave, the pressure on the electricity supply will increase and the country will be more vulnerable to blackouts.
Aside from air conditioning, many Japanese workers are cutting back on uses of power to save electricity. “Most of the lights in my office are off,” said Yuriko Koike, governor of Tokyo. “It’s dark.” Residents are also directed to take off masks when outside and set their fridges to higher temperatures.
The vigorous heat is also linked to numerous fevers and deaths, and those who aren’t sick are still struggling in the sweltering weather. “You can’t manage the heat just with your endurance. No matter how tough a person you are, you could lose your life,” said Kentaro Araki, a researcher at the Japan Meteorological Agency.
Still, Japanese residents were trying to find positive ways to get on with life. After the cancelling of his daughter’s sports practice, citizen Yoko Koguchi said, “Thanks to this spare time, we are off to a bookstore and a short trip for something delicious.” The heat wave also encourages residents to take care of themselves and save electricity, which will be beneficial in the long run. Although many people in Japan are suffering, it is ensured that the intense heat will come to an end soon.
Over 4,500 citizens were taken to the hospital due to the intense heat, the majority being people of age 65 or older. According to Japan’s Fire and Disaster Management Agency, this is over four times the number from last year. Temperatures peaked at 95 degrees for eight days straight, a streak never recorded since 1875. In Isesaki, temperatures reached 104 degrees, almost breaking Japan’s nationwide record of 106 degrees.
Events like these are likely linked to the issues of climate change and global warming. People are becoming more aware of the detriments that come with global warming and are urged to take care of their environment. Extreme weather conditions like this show that the Earth is getting warmer as time goes on.
Japan relies on imported liquified natural gases for energy since it shut down its coal and nuclear power plants. With the heat wave, the pressure on the electricity supply will increase and the country will be more vulnerable to blackouts.
Aside from air conditioning, many Japanese workers are cutting back on uses of power to save electricity. “Most of the lights in my office are off,” said Yuriko Koike, governor of Tokyo. “It’s dark.” Residents are also directed to take off masks when outside and set their fridges to higher temperatures.
The vigorous heat is also linked to numerous fevers and deaths, and those who aren’t sick are still struggling in the sweltering weather. “You can’t manage the heat just with your endurance. No matter how tough a person you are, you could lose your life,” said Kentaro Araki, a researcher at the Japan Meteorological Agency.
Still, Japanese residents were trying to find positive ways to get on with life. After the cancelling of his daughter’s sports practice, citizen Yoko Koguchi said, “Thanks to this spare time, we are off to a bookstore and a short trip for something delicious.” The heat wave also encourages residents to take care of themselves and save electricity, which will be beneficial in the long run. Although many people in Japan are suffering, it is ensured that the intense heat will come to an end soon.
