2025 Experienced Record-Breaking Heatwave in Summer Across Japan and South Korea

In Japan, the scorching heat of summer has taken a toll on the nation, with 84,521 people hospitalized due to the high temperatures between May 1 and Aug 24 this year. This figure slightly surpasses the 83,414 hospitalizations during the same period last year, marking the third consecutive summer of record-level high temperatures in the country, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA).

The warmer climate is also affecting Japan's cherished cherry trees, causing them to bloom earlier than usual. Last year, Mount Fuji's snowcap was absent for the longest recorded period, a stark reminder of the changing climate.

Meanwhile, South Korea is grappling with a prolonged drought in the eastern coastal city of Gangneung. The city, known for its ski resorts, is experiencing exceptionally dry conditions, with water levels at the Obong reservoir falling below 15%. As a result, authorities have declared a state of national disaster and implemented water restrictions, including shutting off 75% of household meters.

The average temperature in South Korea during the same period was 25.7°C, the highest since data collection began in 1973, surpassing the previous record of 25.6°C set just last year.

Heatwaves are becoming more intense and frequent worldwide due to human-caused climate change. Europe has seen the fastest warming per decade since 1990, followed closely by Asia. Countries with the highest average temperatures in recent years are typically those with tropical or desert climates, such as parts of the Philippines with consistent day temperatures around 30°C, and regions like Hungary, which has recorded highs up to 41.9°C.

Extreme heatwaves have also been a recurring issue in Europe, with temperatures exceeding 40°C in countries like Italy, France, Greece, Spain, and Turkey. A clear trend of rising average temperatures and increasing extreme heat events has been observed globally and in Europe, linked to human-caused climate change.

The United Nations has warned that rising global temperatures are having an ever-worsening impact on health and productivity. In Japan, 80-year-old Masao Nakano, an avid runner from Tokyo, misses the cool air of the past and finds it difficult to cope with the current heat. Despite the challenges, Nakano survives the sizzling summer by working out at a gym and jogging to prepare for a marathon.

Productivity drops by 2% to 3% for every degree above 20°C due to rising global temperatures. As the world grapples with the effects of climate change, it becomes increasingly important to address these issues and work towards sustainable solutions.