Japan sees unusually cool June with record‑low heatwave days

In June 2026 Japan experienced far fewer extreme‑heat days than expected. The Japan Meteorological Agency had forecast above‑average temperatures, yet only four locations recorded a "猛暑日" (extremely hot day), compared with 490 the previous year – less than 1 % of the typical count. Meteorologist Atsushi Katahira attributed the coolness to a persistent rainy‑season front and several typhoons that kept temperatures near normal.

Residents across the Kansai region reported cooler conditions. The beach opening at Takeno‑hama in Hyogo was described as “the best ever” because the heat was absent, while Kyoto’s traditional summer “natsusobako” venues enjoyed comfortable 29 °C evenings. Conversely, a new shaved‑ice shop in Osaka that had counted on a hot summer struggled, with its owner noting the unexpected lack of customers.

Weather forecasters now expect July to be above average, with warm air spreading to the Kansai and Tokushima areas and the rainy season persisting for another two to three weeks. They warn of increasing hot days, heat‑stroke risk and the need for vigilance against heavy rain and landslides.