Japan’s Record Heatwave leaves 120+ dead with many due to simple mistake

Over 120 individuals succumbed to heatstroke in Tokyo last month as the city experienced record-breaking temperatures .

The Tokyo Medical Examiner's Office reported that 123 people, mostly elderly, died from heatstroke in July. Most victims had air conditioning units installed but chose not to use them, leading to their unfortunate demise.

All but two were found dead inside, Tokyo Medical Examiner's Office said. In Japan , a common belief among the elderly is that air conditioning can be detrimental to health, causing many to avoid using it. This has led local health authorities to issue warnings encouraging the use of cooling units.

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According to Japan's Fire and Disaster Management Agency, over 37,000 people were treated for heatstroke at hospitals nationwide last month, reports the Express US . July was the hottest month since 1898, with average temperatures nearly four degrees Fahrenheit above the 30-year average.

This marks the highest number of heatstroke deaths since the 2018 heatwave, which claimed 127 lives. On Tuesday, Tokyo saw temperatures rise to 93 degrees, prompting heatstroke alerts in 22 of Japan's 47 prefectures.

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Authorities have advised against outdoor exercise, highlighting infants and the elderly as groups at higher risk of heatstroke. August is expected to bring more hot weather, with temperatures predicted to hit 95 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.

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"Please pay attention to temperature forecasts and heatstroke alerts and take adequate precautions to prevent heatstroke," Japan's meteorological agency said.