As a severe heatwave engulfs the regions of Tokai and Kyushu in Japan, local authorities and citizens are doubling up on efforts to prevent heatstroke and related ailments. The pressing need is to adapt to this extreme weather, keeping themselves safe in the high summer heat. Public warnings have been issued with guidelines for keeping cool, drinking ample water, and avoiding direct sunlight when the heat is at its peak.

In Japan, heatwaves are taken very seriously, especially since the 2018 catastrophe, where thousands were hospitalized due to heatstroke. The Japanese believe in collective responsibility and community care, which is why awareness campaigns are typically very effective. Societal values of respect for humanity and health aptly involve every citizen in these efforts.

In the US or EU, similar issues are addressed with advisories and health notices. However, in the face of such weather conditions, communities often take individual measures rather than implementing rigorously coordinated community responses as prevalent in Japan.