Heatwave question for Tokyo Olympics

A deadly heatwave in Japan has many residents in Tokyo questioning the wisdom of staging the 2020 Olympics in July and August.

Nine people died and thousands were taken to hospital across the country on Wednesday as temperatures rose as high as 40.7C in central Japan.

Rescuers in Tokyo responded to more than 3,000 emergency calls, breaking the record of 2,900 set the previous day. A total of 317 people were taken to hospital. The 2020 Olympics will run from July 24 to August 9, when temperatures in central Tokyo can exceed 35C. Tokyo’s Application File to host the 2020 Games reads: “The pleasant weather conditions at this time of year will be ideal for athletes.”

But anyone who has spent a summer in Tokyo knows that is not the case. Experts warn the risk of heatstroke in Tokyo has escalated in recent years, while noting the Olympics are expected to take place in conditions when sports should normally be halted.