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Why are Korea and Japan experiencing record heat now?
Korea and Japan are experiencing record heat due to a combination of natural weather patterns and long-term climate change. The region is facing a heatwave driven by high-pressure systems that trap warm air, leading to temperatures exceeding 40°C. Climate change has also made such extreme heat more likely by increasing the overall temperature of the atmosphere, making these record-breaking temperatures more frequent and intense.
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How is climate change contributing to these heatwaves?
Climate change is a major factor behind the increasing frequency and severity of heatwaves in Asia. Rising global temperatures caused by greenhouse gas emissions lead to hotter summers and more intense heat events. Asia's rapid warming—nearly twice the global average—means that extreme heat is becoming more common, disrupting daily life and straining infrastructure in countries like Korea and Japan.
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What are the health risks during such extreme heat?
Extreme heat poses serious health risks, including heatstroke, dehydration, and heat exhaustion. Vulnerable groups like the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions are at higher risk. Hospitals are seeing increased cases of heat-related illnesses, and authorities are issuing health advisories to warn people to stay cool, hydrated, and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
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How are governments responding to the heatwave?
Governments in Korea and Japan are taking various measures to combat the heatwave. These include issuing heat alerts, extending working hours for outdoor workers, relaxing dress codes, and opening cooling centers for vulnerable populations. Authorities are also monitoring infrastructure for heat-related disruptions and advising citizens on how to stay safe during extreme temperatures.
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Will this heatwave continue or get worse?
While weather patterns can change, climate experts warn that such extreme heat events are likely to become more frequent and severe due to ongoing climate change. The current heatwave in Korea and Japan is part of a broader trend of rising temperatures across Asia, suggesting that similar or worse heat events could occur in the future unless significant climate action is taken.