Japan Reports Record Heat and Drought This Summer

• Japan is experiencing its hottest summer since 1898
• The temperature in July exceeded the average by 2.89 °C
• Critically low water levels in reservoirs threaten rice production

This is reported by The Yomiuri Shimbun, Asharq Al-Awsat.

Japan is experiencing its hottest summer since the beginning of meteorological observations in 1898. According to data from the Japan Meteorological Agency, the average temperature in July this year exceeded the average for 1991-2020 by 2.89 °C, which is a new record.

Temperatures continue to rise, including a recorded maximum temperature of 41.2 °C on July 30 in the western region of Hyogo. The low amount of rainfall is being observed across the entire country, especially in northern regions, where drought has negatively impacted rice cultivation.

In line with the data, rainfall in July was recorded at historically low levels, and the drought has lasted several weeks. It is predicted that the heat wave will continue into September, which could lead to a significant impact on future harvests.

In the regions of Tohoku and Hokuriku, water levels in many reservoirs have dropped to critically low indicators. The Naruka Dam, which supplies water to the agricultural area, is currently at 0% of its total capacity, causing a prolonged crisis among farmers.

Farmers who grow rice are facing serious problems due to the lack of water. The Ministry of Agriculture plans to provide subsidies for the installation of pumps and necessary equipment to improve growing conditions.

Experts believe that drought and heat are consequences of climate change, including rising sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, which has led to instability in weather conditions.

Preliminary forecasts indicate that rainfall in some regions may return, but this may not be sufficient to solve the water supply problem.

Tags: Weather