(ORDO NEWS) — The Japanese government has urged people to keep their air conditioners on as Tokyo is experiencing its worst June heat wave since records began.
The Asahi Shimbun newspaper, citing firefighters, reported that 80 people aged 12 to 96 were hospitalized in Tokyo on Monday with suspected heat-related illnesses. Another 76 people were reportedly hospitalized on Tuesday.
Temperatures in the city reached 35.1 degrees Celsius (95.18 Fahrenheit) by 1 pm local time on Tuesday. The heat wave will continue, with temperatures expected to hit 36 degrees Celsius (96.8 Fahrenheit) in Tokyo on Wednesday and Thursday, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency.
The national record for the hottest day in June was broken on Saturday when the city of Isesaki, located 95 kilometers (51 miles) from Tokyo, reached 40.2 degrees Celsius (104.36 Fahrenheit).
Despite the sweltering heat, the authorities urged people not to abandon efforts to save energy. They asked residents to turn off unnecessary lights and electronic devices on certain days and hours.
Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Koichi Hagiuda nevertheless urged people to use air conditioners.
“Obviously there are some older people who have turned off their air conditioners because we are asking people to save energy, but please – it’s so hot right now – feel free to cool down,” Hagiuda said.
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