An unprecedented heatwave hit Japan recently, with temperatures soaring to a record-breaking 41.8℃. During these conditions, local citizens likened the oppressive heat to being in front of a running hairdryer. This intense heatwave presents severe health risks and is impacting the daily lives of Japanese residents.

Heatwaves in Japan are taken very seriously due to the potential health risks they represent, particularly for the elderly and young children. Public awareness campaigns are common, and services become mobilized to ensure the well-being of those most vulnerable. To escape the heat, citizens often flock to air-conditioned locations such as shopping malls or community cooling centers.

In comparison to the United States and the EU, Japan often experiences more humid heatwaves, which can be even more dangerous. The US and EU are also accustomed to heatwaves but typically maintain a broader range of public services equipped to deal with the consequences, including emergency services and green initiatives for a more sustainable environment.