Kyoto Prefecture Surpasses 40 Degrees Celsius for the First Time on Record
More Locations Exceed 40 Degrees... New Records Set Daily
Even Food Display Models Melt Amid Disaster-Level Heatwave
All across Japan, the country is suffering from an unprecedented "disaster-level heatwave." Last month, the nationwide monthly average temperature was the highest ever recorded since the Japan Meteorological Agency began its observations, and the average temperature for July has set a new all-time record for the third consecutive year. In particular, on July 30, Kyoto Prefecture surpassed 40 degrees Celsius for the first time since statistics began, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius being recorded. In some regions, temperatures remained above 40 degrees Celsius for four consecutive days, which is the second-longest streak since August 2013.
"Even ramen would run away"... Heatwave causes food models to collapse
Due to the record-breaking heatwave, on August 2, a restaurant in downtown Fukuoka experienced its food display models melting. These food models are typically made from materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), silicone, or wax, which are vulnerable to high temperatures. Unable to withstand the intense heat, the models appear to have collapsed and slid forward.
A photo of this incident posted on X (X, formerly Twitter) received over 28 million views in just two days, drawing significant attention locally. Local internet users commented, "It's so hot even ramen would run away," "People are melting too," "This heat is no laughing matter," and "The soles of rubber boots sometimes melt and stick to the pavement from the heat." In addition, other photos posted on X showed matcha latte display models melting and food models falling off plates due to the heat.
This unusual heatwave is also affecting the plans of travelers intending to visit Japan. Posts on a travel community included comments such as, "I canceled my trip because I'm worried about heatstroke," "With this level of heat, just walking around is torture," and "I'm too scared to visit Japan this summer." In reality, as news of deaths related to the heatwave continues to be reported daily, more people are reconsidering or postponing their trips to Japan.
The Japan Meteorological Agency predicts that the heatwave will continue across the country, except for Hokkaido, for the time being. Accordingly, experts are emphasizing the importance of following daily health guidelines such as managing body temperature, staying hydrated, and refraining from going outdoors. In particular, it is important to avoid outdoor activities between 12:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., and to drink water every 30 minutes to an hour, even if you do not feel thirsty. When going outside, it is recommended to wear a hat or use a parasol to block sunlight and to wear well-ventilated clothing. It is also crucial to avoid staying outdoors for extended periods whenever possible.
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