Japan has officially recorded its first ‘cruelly hot day’ as temperatures soared above 40 degrees Celsius, prompting a new term, kokushobi, to describe these extreme conditions. This shift in terminology highlights a growing concern over the frequency of such heat events, which were once considered rare. The Japan Meteorological Agency’s introduction of this term serves as a warning about the dangers of heat exposure, especially as heat-related deaths have surged in recent years.
The impact of rising temperatures extends beyond health risks; it is reshaping agricultural practices and corporate culture. Farmers are adapting by planting heat-resistant crops, while some are even experimenting with varieties like avocados, which were not traditionally cultivated in Japan. In the corporate world, the government is encouraging workers to wear shorts and more casual attire to cope with the heat, a significant shift from Japan’s traditionally formal dress code.
This cultural change is part of broader measures to reduce energy consumption during scorching summers, as air conditioning demands rise. The Tokyo governor’s recommendations for more relaxed office wear reflect a practical response to the challenging heat and electricity supply issues. As temperatures continue to climb, these adaptations may become permanent fixtures in Japanese life.
Looking ahead, studies indicate that without significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, outdoor sports may become unfeasible by the 2060s. With average summer temperatures already rising, Japan’s response to heat is not just a seasonal adjustment but a necessary evolution in lifestyle and policy to safeguard public health and maintain agricultural productivity.
Source: The Guardian
