Temperatures Exceed 30°C in Many Parts of Japan; Hiroshima Reaches 34°C

Tokyo, May 17 (Kyodo) - Under the influence of a high-pressure system, many parts of Japan experienced sunny and hot weather today. The Japan Meteorological Agency reported that downtown Tokyo recorded a temperature of 30.2°C after 1:30 PM, marking the city's first 'manatsubi' (true summer day, with temperatures over 30°C) of the year. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency's definitions, days with a maximum temperature of 25°C or higher are 'summer days,' 30°C or higher are 'true summer days,' and 35°C or higher are '猛暑日' (intensely hot days). As of 2:00 PM today, approximately 20% of the nation's observation points, or 177 locations, recorded temperatures exceeding 30°C. Many areas experienced their hottest day of the year so far, with Akiota, Hiroshima Prefecture, reaching 34.2°C. The report warns that rising temperatures before the body is acclimatized to the heat increase the risk of heatstroke, and advises the public to stay hydrated.