Japan Battles Record Heat: Impact on Rice Harvest

Japan has recorded its highest-ever temperature of 41.8 degrees Celsius, leading the government to urge residents to stay indoors as concerns rise over the impact on agriculture, particularly rice crops.

The record-breaking heat was recorded in Isesaki, surpassing last week's previous high in Tamba, with over 53,000 individuals hospitalized for heat stroke this summer, according to official reports.

With critical levels of rainfall in northeastern Japan raising fears for the rice harvest, the government promises support for pest control and drought measures, aiming to prevent a repeat of last year's rice shortage crisis.

(With inputs from agencies.)