Tokyo has endured an unprecedented ten consecutive days with temperatures soaring above 35°C (95°F), a new record stretching back to 1875. This relentless heatwave follows Japan's hottest June and July on record, with average temperatures significantly exceeding historical norms. The prolonged extreme weather has led to a staggering 53,000 hospitalizations nationwide due to heatstroke, highlighting a critical public health challenge. The Japan Meteorological Agency attributes this persistent heat to powerful high-pressure systems, a phenomenon exacerbated by the broader impacts of global climate change. Authorities are strongly advising residents to remain indoors and utilize air-conditioned spaces to safeguard against heat-related illnesses, with particular emphasis on protecting vulnerable populations.
Beyond the immediate health crisis, the extreme temperatures are inflicting severe damage on Japan's agricultural sector. Key rice-producing regions, such as Tohoku and Hokuriku, have experienced the least amount of rainfall in nearly 80 years, exacerbating drought conditions. This lack of precipitation, coupled with the intense heat, is threatening rice crops, potentially leading to shortages and price increases. Experts, like Kazunuki Ohizumi, professor emeritus at Miyagi University, have stated that yields and distribution volumes are almost certain to decrease. The situation is further complicated by an increase in stink bugs, which are infesting rice fields and adding to the challenges faced by farmers. This follows a pattern from 2023, where extreme heat also impacted rice quality, leading to a national shortage and price hikes.
The warming climate is also affecting the nation's fisheries. Rising ocean temperatures are causing marine life to migrate to cooler waters, resulting in lower catches of traditional species. Data from the Japan Meteorological Agency indicates that sea surface temperatures around Japan reached their highest levels since 1982 in the first half of 2024. This has led to a significant decline in seafood catches, with a 13 percent drop reported between 2014 and 2019 alone, a trend that continues. Specifically, catches of species like bonito and mackerel have weakened, while salmon and saury have seen severe declines. This impact on fisheries is not only affecting the availability of seafood but also driving up prices for items such as sea urchin.
The government is responding to these multifaceted crises by implementing emergency support measures. Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi has announced plans for aid in pest control and drought mitigation, alongside a policy to boost rice production. These efforts aim to prevent a recurrence of the 2023 rice shortage crisis, which was compounded by governmental miscalculations in supply and demand. The nation's experience underscores the profound and interconnected impacts of climate change, demanding a unified approach to adaptation and resilience.