Tokyo Summer Survival Guide: How to Avoid Heatstroke

Climate change is becoming a huge reality for many citizens across the world, and Tokyo is no exception. Every year seems hotter than the last, with last year setting records for scorching temperatures–and for subsequent heat-related deaths.

In this article, we’ll help you recognize the health dangers associated with summer in Tokyo, how to best avoid these situations, and what you should do if the heat becomes a serious problem.

When Are Temperatures the Hottest in Tokyo?

The end of July through August is the center of these sweltering temperatures, sometimes reaching over 37ºC, especially when factoring often above 70% humidity. This guide will help you make the most informed choice to keep yourself and your family safe through the rest of these summer months.

What Exactly is Heatstroke?

Identifying Heatstroke is one of the most important things you can do. The earlier you can identify this condition, the better chances of a full recovery. Dizzy/Light-headedness, stomach or muscle pain/cramps, and nausea are all early symptoms of heatstroke.

If you identify any of these, get them to a cool (preferable air-conditioned) place immediately and remove or loosen their clothes to apply cold water/ice. If still possible, have the person drink something with both water and sodium–Japanese vending machines often carry ice-cold sports drinks for this reason.

More Severe Signs and Symptoms of Heatstroke

Later symptoms can be much more serious, however. Often abnormal perspiration comes next, where sweat either becomes overly profuse, or more commonly not sweating at all. This comes with dry, red skin and often a high body temperature.

People experiencing heatstroke may then become unresponsive or have difficulty walking in a straight line or doing basic motor functions. Worse, this level of severe heatstroke sometimes makes it impossible for them to drink water. These symptoms are all signs of more serious heatstroke and emergency services should be called immediately.

Just as with more mild symptoms, the person should be removed to an area as cold as possible, covered with ice as above, and if possible given small sips of water. The faster emergency response can arrive, the better their chance of recovery.

Tips for Preventing Heatstroke in the Hot Tokyo Summer

For many, this is a totally frightening and new experience–so how to prevent it from ever occurring to yourself and the people you love? There are a few key ways to avoid heatstroke and other heat-related, life-threatening conditions.

1. Know Before You Go!

Japan has many wonderful experiences exclusive to the summer months, but some of these do occur outside. Paying attention to the weather reports can be vital for ensuring you’re prepared, and checking the heatstroke index if planning any strenuous physical activity.

2. Dress Appropriately

Breezy oversize clothes are often best in the sticky heat so emblematic of Tokyo summers. Lighter colors will reflect light to keep you cooler as well. Like any other place, cotton, linen, and other light natural fabrics will help wick the sweat away.

If you like your threads a little more high-tech, several Japanese companies make clothes geared towards the sometimes-brutal conditions of Japanese summertime.

3. Stay Hydrated

The heat and humidity makes it very easy to sweat profusely in the hard-hitting summer months. Staying hydrated is a vital first step to combating heatstroke at the source. Try to find something with a good amount of electrolytes and not too much sugar.

solutions like OS-1 are everywhere in drugstores in both jelly and drink form, and are almost always kept nice and cold.

4. Find Somewhere Cool

Time outside in the direct sun is the most dangerous, especially if you’re exerting yourself physically–though its important to remember even just sitting or standing in the heat can cause heatstroke or sickness.

On days when the heatstroke index is high, its best to stay indoors if possible, but be cautious; the intense air-conditioning that Tokyo is also famous for can cool your body down so much that the sudden change can cause problems. Keeping cooling wipes or handheld fans can be a great way to cool yourself on the move as well.

How to Respond When Heatstroke Strikes

Worried about what to do when a loved one is already feeling the effects of heatstroke? Time is of the essence, so it is important to act fast, but maintain your composure. When heatstroke occurs, the first thing to do is call emergency services. But which number should you call?

The best advice is to call Emergency Medical Services (119). Unfortunately, they don’t always speak English, but the most important words are kyuu-kyuu-sha (ambulance), nechuusho (heatstroke), and jyuusho (address). Make sure you know where you are when calling, or, if you’re in a centrally populated area, find a koban, or police box. Tell them nechuusho, and they’ll come to your aid, and may be able to help translate or direct the ambulance.

Avoid Sun Overexposure, Live Closer to Where You Want to Go

So what’s the best thing to do in these situations, and more importantly, how do you enjoy the thrill and wonder synonymous with summertime in Japan without putting yourself and your family in danger?