Hokkaido is bracing for a return of intense summer heat starting tomorrow, July 21, as inland areas face temperatures reaching “midsummer day” levels of 30 degrees Celsius or higher. According to weather reports, this period of high humidity and heat will persist through Thursday, July 23, before a shift in atmospheric pressure brings more comfortable conditions by Friday, July 24.
Inland Heat and Midsummer Temperatures
After a brief respite during the three-day weekend, where Sapporo saw temperatures dip to 24.4 degrees Celsius as of 3:00 p.m. on July 20, the region is expected to experience a significant climb in temperatures. This shift marks a notable change from the previous weekend, which followed a period of extreme heat on July 17, when four AMeDAS stations on the Okhotsk side recorded temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius.
For the period between July 21 and July 23, inland cities including Sapporo, Asahikawa, and Obihiro are likely to record temperatures of 30 degrees Celsius or higher. The persistence of high humidity is expected to create a stifling, muggy atmosphere across the region.
Did You Know?
On July 17, Hokkaido experienced its first “mousho-bi” (extreme heat day) of the year, with four locations on the Okhotsk Sea side recording temperatures of 35 degrees Celsius or higher.
Temperature Shifts and Evening Health Risks
The weather pattern is expected to shift significantly on July 24 as high pressure extends from the Okhotsk Sea. This change will likely bring temperatures back to seasonal averages, with many areas on the Pacific and Okhotsk Sea sides potentially staying below 25 degrees Celsius due to the influx of cooler air from the sea.
Residents are advised to monitor their health, particularly during the early part of the week. Minimum temperatures are forecast to remain at or up to 3 degrees Celsius higher than average. In central and southern Hokkaido, including Sapporo and Hakodate, temperatures are not expected to drop below 20 degrees Celsius. This sustained warmth through the night increases the risk of heatstroke, prompting warnings for residents to stay hydrated before sleeping.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the intense heat subside?
The current forecast indicates that the heat will begin to ease on Friday, July 24, as high pressure from the Okhotsk Sea brings temperatures closer to seasonal norms.
Which areas will be most affected by the heat?
Inland areas, specifically including Sapporo, Asahikawa, and Obihiro, are expected to see the highest temperatures, with some days reaching or exceeding 30 degrees Celsius.
Why is there a warning for night-time heatstroke?
During the first half of the week, minimum temperatures in regions like central and southern Hokkaido are expected to remain above 20 degrees Celsius. Combined with high humidity, this creates conditions that may lead to sleep-related heat health issues.
How are you adjusting your daily routine to stay cool during this week’s temperature fluctuations?
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