JMO Declares Heatwave A Natural Disaster As Japan Death Toll Hits 80

Japan’s blistering heatwave has claimed its 80th life, according to authorities in the country where thousands have also been rushed to hospital because of the high temperatures. Officials have urged citizens to stay indoors to avoid temperatures, which have exceeded 40C in some areas.

The government said it might pay to help state schools install air conditioners and suggested extending the summer holiday, which started this week for many students. It comes as the Asian nation’s weather agency declared the heatwave, a natural disaster.

“Record temperatures are continuing across the country and emergency measures to protect students and their well-being has become an issue,” chief cabinet secretary, Yoshihide Suga, told a news briefing.

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The heat is expected to ease slightly this week as a high pressure zone responsible for it moves west and east, allowing moist air to bring rain to some scorched areas, the Japan Meteorological Agency said.

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https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/japan-heatwave-latest-death-toll-killed-hot-weather-natural-disaster-a8462656.html