Record-breaking June heatwave sets new temperature record in Japan
Japan witnessed an unprecedented heatwave in June 2025, with the national average temperature reaching a record high since official statistics began in 1898. The mercury soared 2.34 degrees Celsius above the standard value, marking the highest June temperature on record [2][3][5].
The causes behind this extreme heat were multifaceted. Strong high-pressure systems lingered over Japan, leading to clear skies and intense daytime heating, raising surface and air temperatures significantly [3][4]. The surrounding ocean waters were much warmer than usual, contributing further to the heat and humidity felt across the country [4]. Climate change, while not directly attributable to a single event, has contributed to the long-term trend of rising temperatures and increasingly frequent heatwaves [4].
Unusually early midsummer conditions caught both forecasters and the public off guard by their intensity and timing [2][5]. The heatwaves resulted in many regions seeing temperatures exceed 35°C as early as mid-June, a level more typical of July or August [2][5]. This extreme heat posed public health risks, with authorities issuing warnings about heatstroke and urging the public, especially the elderly and vulnerable populations, to take precautions [2][5].
Prolonged extreme heat can disrupt daily life, affect agriculture, increase energy demand for cooling, and heighten wildfire risks [3][4]. Meteorologists warn that the current pattern could persist, with July and August potentially experiencing further record-breaking temperatures [2][4][5]. The Japan Meteorological Agency notes that recent years have already seen the hottest summers on record, and this trend is likely to continue as global temperatures rise [2][5].
As extreme weather becomes more frequent, public health, infrastructure, and emergency response systems will face growing challenges [4]. The record temperatures in June 2025 highlight the growing impact of climate variability and change on Japan, reinforcing the need for sustained efforts in adaptation and mitigation strategies [3][4][5].
It's important to note that no signs of a trade deal between Japan and the US have been shown at this time. Other news includes the 2nd Army Area chief in Thailand encouraging Thais to visit archaeological sites along the Surin border, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) confirming that Tomorrowland will take place in Chonburi, Thailand in 2026 with a billion-baht investment.
In other political news, Yoshinori Oikawa, head of the Japan Meteorological Agency's Centre for Information on Climate Extremes, stated that the current temperature is abnormally high. In 2025 polls, Komeito aims to keep 14 upper house seats. Japan is considering ways to expand the use of disaster food trucks, but no specific details about this expansion were provided.
Lastly, Divana, a brand in Thailand, has chosen Thai BL (Boys' Love) actors as their brand muses to attract Chinese tourists. The new sworn-in ministers in Japan have been instructed by the Head of the Government to prioritize the peace and safety of the nation and its people. However, no new information about the trade deal between Japan and the US or the political plans for the upper house seats in 2025 were provided in this article.
- The Japan Meteorological Agency's Centre for Information on Climate Extremes, headed by Yoshinori Oikawa, indicated that the current temperature is abnormally high, a possible repercussion of climate change.
- As global temperatures continue to rise, the Japan Meteorological Agency expects a trend of increasingly frequent heatwaves, posing risks to public health and disrupting daily life.
- Amidst the rising concerns over climate change and its impacts, the tourism industry is not left untouched. For instance, Divana, a brand in Thailand, has chosen Thai BL actors as their brand muses to attract Chinese tourists.
