Japan faces a troubling future with extreme heatwaves potentially becoming a yearly event. According to its meteorological agency, this alarming scenario could unfold if global warming continues unchecked.
A recent report details how days of extreme heat, which once occurred only once every century, could rise to an astonishing 99 times each century in Japan. This situation would happen if the global temperature climbs by 4 degrees Celsius, leading to averages nearly 6 degrees higher than pre-industrial times. The report, titled “Climate Change in Japan 2025,” was produced by the Japan Meteorological Agency alongside the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology.
This report builds on findings from a 2020 study, revealing that Japan’s average temperature has been rising by about 1.4 degrees per century from 1898 to 2024. The increase in extreme temperatures has been significant, with more days registering as “extremely hot”—those reaching 35 degrees Celsius—or “true summer days,” exceeding 30 degrees Celsius.
Recent historical data highlights this trend. In July 2018 and July 2023, Japan experienced heat events that likely wouldn’t have happened without the influence of global warming. This illustrates the link between climate change and the frequency of extreme weather.
The forecasted rise in global temperatures poses additional risks. If temperatures rise by 4 degrees, Japan could see 17.5 more “extremely hot days” added to the yearly tally. On top of this, it would mean 46 fewer days each year with freezing temperatures.
Experts agree that immediate action is necessary. According to Dr. Naoko Saito, a climate scientist at the University of Tokyo, “The time to prepare and adapt is now. If we don’t take effective measures soon, the impact will be irreversible for future generations.”
Public reaction to the report has been one of concern, with many turning to social media to express their fears about the changing climate. Hashtags like #JapanHeatwave and #ClimateAction have gained traction among youth advocating for urgent measures to protect the environment.
These findings serve as a call to action, emphasizing the growing urgency of addressing climate change. To stay informed about climate reports, you can check resources from the Japan Meteorological Agency or global organizations like the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Check out this related article: Combatting Climate Corruption: A Crucial Step Toward Saving Our Planet
Source linkglobal warming, Osaka, urbanisation, Nagoya, Climate Change in Japan 2025, July 2023, Paris Agreement, Japan Meteorological Agency, rainfall, Tokyo, extremely hot days, Japan, July 2018, extreme temperature, tropical cyclones, Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
