Approximately 18,600 people were hospitalized with heatstroke in Japan between July 20 and July 26, with 45 deaths reported.

Axar.az reports, citing Japanese media, that according to Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, the number of heatstroke cases exceeded the previous week's figure by more than 7,700, reaching the highest level recorded in 2026.

"More than 710 of those hospitalized with heatstroke remained in hospital for over three weeks. About 58% of those affected were aged 65 and older," the ministry said.

It should be noted that temperatures above 40°C have been recorded in parts of Japan for five consecutive days since July 21.