Extreme heat continues across Japan

Scorching heat continues across in Japan. Weather officials are urging people to take extra care to avoid heatstroke. The Meteorological Agency and the Environment Ministry warn that the risk of heat-related illness is extremely high. They have issued heatstroke alerts for most parts of the country.

The intense heat is expected to continue through Sunday in western Japan, and through Thursday in eastern and northern parts of the country. An increasing number of people have been coming down with heatstroke. Some cases have been fatal. Officials are urging people to avoid non-essential outings, use air-conditioning appropriately and keep hydrated.