Japan and South Korea endure a record-breaking heatwave this summer

In the summer of 20XX, both Japan and South Korea experienced scorching temperatures, marking a significant departure from historical norms.

According to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), Japan experienced its hottest summer since records began in 1898. The average temperature between June and August was a staggering 2.36 degrees Celsius above the standard value. This surpassed the previous record set last year, which was 25.6 degrees Celsius.

Similarly, South Korea's meteorological authority, the Korea Meteorological Administration, reported that the country experienced its hottest summer since records began in 1973. The average temperature during the same period was a sweltering 25.7 degrees Celsius.

These heatwaves have broken previous temperature records in both countries, a clear indication of the impact of climate change. Climate change has been causing temperatures to soar worldwide, leading to more erratic weather patterns.

The heatwaves have had a profound impact on Japan, particularly in urban areas like Tokyo. The hottest periods generally occur in the summer months (June to August) in recent years. In fact, cities in Japan that have experienced the highest summer temperatures since the beginning of records are not explicitly detailed, but Tokyo has been a notable hotspot.

The warmer climate is causing disruptions in Japan's natural ecosystems. For instance, some cherry trees are not fully blossoming due to the warmer climate, as autumns and winters are not cold enough to trigger flowering. Moreover, the snowcap of Mount Fuji was absent for the longest recorded period last year, appearing in early November instead of the average of early October.

The heatwaves have also taken a toll on public health. According to JMA, 84,521 people were hospitalized due to the heatwave from May 1 to Aug. 24 this year, slightly more than the 83,414 hospitalized during the same period last year.

In South Korea, the effects of the heatwave are similarly evident. The warmer climate is causing changes in the traditional seasons, with summer temperatures creeping into what used to be spring and autumn months.

These extreme weather events serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate change and its impacts on our planet.