Tokyo: The death of a 13-year-old girl in Japan has highlighted the dangers of the current heatwave in East Asia. The girl, who has not been named, was found unconscious on a pavement on Friday after cycling home from a school club. She was taken to hospital but died from what authorities believe was heatstroke.
The heatwave has been particularly severe in South Korea, where at least 12 people have died from heat-related causes since the weekend. Most of the country has been under a heatwave warning – issued when temperatures pass 35C – since Tuesday.
The elderly are particularly vulnerable to heatstroke, and many of the deaths in South Korea have been of people over 70. However, the teenager’s death is a reminder that even young people are at risk.
The heatwave is also causing disruption to transport and businesses. In South Korea, some schools have been closed and flights have been cancelled due to the heat. In Japan, the government has advised people to stay indoors and to avoid strenuous activity.
The heatwave is expected to continue for the next few days, and authorities in both countries are urging people to take precautions to stay safe.
The heatwave is a reminder of the dangers of climate change. As the planet warms, heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense. This is a serious threat to public health, and it is important to take steps to protect ourselves from the heat.