Scorching heat continues to affect much of Japan

Scorching heat is covering wide areas of Japan on Monday, with the temperature topping 38 degrees in some regions. Weather officials say that due to high pressure system covering Japan, strong sunshine is driving the mercury up from the northeastern region of Tohoku to the southern region of Kyushu.

Heatstroke alerts have been issued for 30 prefectures and parts of Kagoshima and Okinawa prefectures. People are advised to use air conditioners appropriately, keep hydrated even if they are not feeling thirsty, and avoid outings and exercise unless absolutely necessary during the day.