Heatwave in Japan kills 30 people as warnings issued

The scorching weather comes just weeks after western Japan was hit by torrential rain and devastating floods.

The thermometer registers over 40C in Tajimi City, Japan.

The thermometer registers over 40C in Tajimi City, Japan. Source: AP

A continuing heatwave in Japan has seen scorching temperatures reach as high as 40C, killing at least 30 people over the past two weeks.

People across the country have been urged to take precaution as thousands have sought hospital treatment for heat-related conditions over the past two weeks.

Temperatures in the ancient capital of Kyoto have been above 38C for seven days straight -  a level unseen since record-keeping first began.

Japan's meteorological agency told people to drink sufficient water to prevent heat exhaustion.
The Japanese education ministry also urged schools across the country to adopt preventative measures after a six-year-old child died in an outdoor class.

Western Japan, still grappling with the devastating effects of torrential rain at the beginning of July, has now been hit by the high temperatures, which is hampering rescue and reconstruction efforts.


About 200 people were killed in the devastating floods and landslides, with the Japanese government setting aside 70 billion yen ($US631 million) to assist with the recovery.


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Published 22 July 2018 9:53am
Source: AFP, SBS


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