Summer in Japan isn’t simply scorching anymore—it’s dangerously scorching. In 2024, practically 8,000 folks in Tokyo alone have been rushed to the hospital for heatstroke, most of them aged. With new temperature information set yearly, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government has teamed up with the Japan Weather Association to launch a brand new device to assist: the Tokyo Heat Map (Japanese solely).
Do We Need a Heat Map?
There’s An English Version
Cooling Shelters and Cool Share Spots
Tips to Avoid Heatstroke
Preventing Heatstroke
Do We Need a Heat Map?
Why even go outdoors?
This is Japan, so even surviving the summer time warmth comes with a contact of paperwork. It’s not sufficient to look outdoors and assume, “Looks pretty hot.” No, you have to first seek the advice of the color-coded heatstroke map to be completely positive.
As one commenter on Reddit quipped: “Looks outside, it’s hot. Better check the government-mandated heatstroke map to be sure, though! – Tanaka-san.” Another joked that come October, you’ll nonetheless be sweating in your winter coat as a result of, properly, the calendar says so.
Regardless, heatstroke isn’t any joke. And it’s good to see any precautions being taken. This interactive map breaks Tokyo down into 1-square-kilometer blocks and reveals the warmth index for every space.
The index isn’t nearly temperature—it additionally takes into consideration humidity, wind and even the “radiant heat” from concrete and asphalt. In quick, it tells you ways doubtless you’re to endure heatstroke relying on the place you’re within the metropolis.
The map updates each hour, provides forecasts as much as 48 hours prematurely, and even color-codes hazard ranges from secure (beneath 21) to disaster-level hazard (35+). If you’re planning errands, work or sightseeing in Tokyo this summer time, checking the map first might make all of the distinction.
There’s An English Version
There is an English model that covers all of Japan. But it’s, let’s say…minimal. Still, for anybody who’s ever tried to navigate a Japanese authorities web site, the truth that an English model exists in any respect seems like a small miracle. We’ll take it.
Check out the English warmth map right here.
Cooling Shelters and Cool Share Spots
In accordance with the Climate Change Adaptation Act, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government has printed a map of 1,800 Cooling Shelters and 1,980 Cool Share Spots.
These locations function warmth evacuation services by wards, cities and cities that present refuge on scorching days. The distinction between a “cooling shelter” and a “cool share spot” is that cooling shelters are solely open when heatstroke warnings are issued.
Some examples of those services embody the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Tokyo Tower and malls.
How to Find Cooling Shelters and Cool Share Spots
To discover the closest cooling shelter or cool share spots in your space, click on this hyperlink (obtainable in English). Most metropolis wards have their very own listing of cooling shelters; click on right here for Shibuya and right here for Minato.
Tips to Avoid Heatstroke
Recognize the earliest indicators of heatstroke.
Heatstroke occurs when your physique can’t cool itself down after extended publicity to excessive temperatures. Symptoms vary from gentle to life-threatening:
- Mild (Level 1): Dizziness, muscle cramps, nausea
- Moderate (Level 2): Headache, fatigue, worsening nausea
- Severe (Level 3): Hot, dry pores and skin, confusion, staggering, convulsions or lack of consciousness
It’s price noting the distinction between warmth exhaustion and heatstroke: exhaustion raises your physique temperature however often stays below 40°C and might usually be handled with relaxation and fluids. Heatstroke, alternatively, may be deadly if untreated.
If you or somebody close by reveals extreme signs, don’t wait it out—name Tokyo EMS at #7119. You’ll be related with a advisor who can advise whether or not you want a health care provider instantly or if it’s time to name an ambulance.
Preventing Heatstroke
Click right here to learn extra.
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