Sapporo, a city in Japan, is experiencing a drastic rise in its summer temperatures that has broken all records since 101 years. This surprising weather pattern has not only raised concerns about global warming, but also caught the attention of the public and authorities as it affects day-to-day life and activates heatwave contingency plans.
In Japan, such a significant weather shift not only directly affects everyday life but also raises concerns about agriculture, public health and transport. The Japanese value harmony with nature and changes in patterns spark dialogues about climate change, health precautions, efficient use of air conditioning, and energy conservation.
Extreme weather shift scenarios in the United States or in Europe often result in similar local responses, with considerations for health risks, impacts on agriculture and adaptation efforts. However, regulations and specific responses vary depending on local climate norms and infrastructure. In the US, for example, different areas have different acclimatization efforts for heatwaves, like 'Cooling Centers' in New York or 'Heat Health Emergencies' in Philadelphia.