Japan started the operation of the heat stroke alert system on April 23 as the country braces for another sizzling summer.

The move comes two days after Kumamoto and Fukuoka prefectures in southwestern Japan reached 30 degrees Celsius.

The “heat stroke alert” is issued for areas where there is a very high risk of heatstroke based on predicted Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT).

When issued, people are urged to stay in cool, air-conditioned places.

The “special heat stroke alert” was also introduced last year as average summer temperatures continue to rise.

It is announced around 2PM on the day before for prefectures expected to experience unprecedented, dangerously high temperatures that could lead to serious health issues.

Designated cooling shelters set up by local governments are opened when the special heat stroke alert is issued.

Events lacking sufficient heat countermeasures may be requested to be canceled or postponed.