Japan Renames the Heat: A Chilling Sign of a Warming World
Science
Posted by
Japan has introduced a new term, “kokushobi” (severely hot day), to describe days when temperatures reach 40°C or higher. The classification was officially announced by the Japan Meteorological Agency on April 17, 2026, marking an important update to the country’s weather terminology.
Previously, Japan’s heat categories included:
- Summer days → 25°C+
- Midsummer days → 30°C+
- Extremely hot days → 35°C+
However, there was no official term for temperatures above 40°C, even though such conditions have become more frequent in recent years.
The introduction of kokushobi follows a period of record-breaking heat, especially in 2025, which became the hottest year ever recorded in Japan. During that year, temperatures exceeded 40°C several times, showing the increasing intensity of heatwaves.
Experts believe this rise in extreme temperatures is connected to climate change, including warmer oceans and changing weather patterns. They warn that severe heat events may become more common in the future, affecting public health, infrastructure, and energy systems.
By creating this new category, Japan hopes to improve public awareness and strengthen heat safety communication. The decision highlights the importance of climate adaptation and proactive action against global warming.
English Lessons from the Article
This article about Japan’s new heat term, “kokushobi,” can help learners improve their English skills through vocabulary, grammar, reading, speaking, and discussion practice.
1. Vocabulary Learning
| Word / Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Introduced | Memperkenalkan |
| Classification | Pengelompokan / kategori |
| Exceeded | Melebihi |
| Record-breaking | Memecahkan rekor |
| Heatwaves | Gelombang panas |
| Extreme temperatures | Suhu ekstrem |
| Climate change | Perubahan iklim |
| Weather patterns | Pola cuaca |
| Awareness | Kesadaran |
| Adaptation | Penyesuaian |
2. Grammar Lessons
A. Present Perfect Tense
The Present Perfect Tense is used to describe actions or situations that started in the past and continue until now.
“Such conditions have become more frequent in recent years.”
Pattern:
Subject + have/has + past participle
- Temperatures have increased rapidly.
- Heatwaves have become more common.
B. Passive Voice
Passive Voice is used when the action is more important than the subject.
“The classification was officially announced by the Japan Meteorological Agency.”
Pattern:
Subject + was/were + past participle
- The rule was introduced in 2026.
- A new term was created by experts.
C. Relative Clauses
Relative clauses provide additional information about a noun.
“2025, which became the hottest year ever recorded in Japan.”
- which
- who
- that
- Japan introduced a term which describes extreme heat.
- Scientists who study climate change gave warnings.
3. Reading Skill
This article helps learners practice reading factual news and understanding climate-related topics.
Main Idea: Japan created a new weather term because extreme heat is becoming more serious.
4. Writing Practice
Practice writing by answering these questions:
- What is kokushobi?
- Why did Japan create the new term?
- How does climate change affect temperatures?
5. Speaking Practice
Practice speaking these sentences aloud:
- Japan introduced a new term for extreme heat.
- Climate change is causing higher temperatures.
- Heatwaves are becoming more common around the world.
6. Discussion Topic
- Do you think climate change affects your country?
- What should people do during extreme heat?
- How can governments reduce climate risks?