Kyoto and Nara are facing a severe heatwave with high temperatures expected to reach 40°C today, July 23, according to forecasters. All two prefectures and four prefectures across the Kinki region are currently under heatstroke alert levels as extreme weather conditions persist for the third day.
Kyoto Faces Potential 40°C Highs During Gion Matsuri
Today marks the traditional twenty-four solar term known as “Taisho,” signifying the hottest period of the year. In Kyoto, this extreme heat coincides with the latter festival, or atomatsuri, of the Gion Festival. Temperatures are forecast to peak between 14:00 and 15:00 today, threatening to hit 40°C in the city.
Historic temperature records show that Kyoto has never previously recorded a temperature of 40°C or higher. The city’s previous record high stands at 39.8°C, which was recorded on August 8, 1994, and again on July 19, 2018. Elsewhere in Kyoto Prefecture, Fukuchiyama observed a high of 40.6°C on July 30, 2025. Under the intense daytime sun, conditions are severe enough to induce immediate heavy sweating within minutes.
Kinki Region Prepares for Dangerous Inland Heat and Afternoon Rain
Across the broader Kinki region, clear summer skies are driving dangerous, life-threatening heat, particularly in inland areas where cooling sea breezes fail to reach. In addition to Kyoto, Nara is also projected to reach 40°C, approaching its previous record high of 39.3°C set on August 8, 1994. Officials have maintained heatstroke alert warnings across all two prefectures and four prefectures of the region for three straight days.
Indoor environments remain a concern, as heatstroke can strike indoors just as easily as outdoors. Furthermore, rising temperatures and humid air could trigger rain clouds over mountainous areas during the afternoon. Residents seeking relief through river activities are advised to monitor upstream weather conditions closely, as heavy rainfall in the mountains can cause sudden increases in river water levels even under clear skies.
Did You Know? Kyoto’s current recorded all-time high is 39.8°C, a record set on August 8, 1994, and matched on July 19, 2018, meaning the city has never officially reached the 40°C threshold.
Recognizing Heatstroke Symptoms and Immediate Emergency Care
When heatstroke symptoms appear, immediate action is required to cool the body down. The first step involves moving the affected person to a cool location, such as an air-conditioned room or a well-ventilated outdoor shade. Loosening clothing helps release trapped body heat. Applying chilled water bottles or ice packs to both sides of the neck, the armpits, and the groin areas effectively lowers core body temperature.
Hydration with water and salt is vital. Self-administered cold water helps remove internal body heat, while sports drinks and oral rehydration solutions restore lost sodium. However, oral fluids must be avoided if the individual exhibits nausea, confusion, or unconsciousness. In such cases where independent drinking is impossible, immediate hospital transport is necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the forecast for Kyoto and Nara today?
Are heatstroke alerts currently in effect?
Yes, heatstroke alerts have been issued across all two prefectures and four prefectures of the Kinki region for three consecutive days.
What should be done if someone shows signs of heatstroke?
Move the person to a cool, shaded, or air-conditioned space, loosen their clothing, apply ice packs or cold bottles to the neck, armpits, and groin, and provide water or sports drinks if they are conscious and able to swallow.
How are you adjusting your daily routine to stay safe during these extreme temperature peaks?
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