Climate change impacts
Average summer temperatures (June-August) observed by the Yokohama Local Meteorological Office, JMA (Statistical Period: 1897-2018) are following an upward trend. In addition to the effects of climate change, these temperature rises may also be the result of the heat island effect.
Adaptation activity
For one of the projects developed by the Yokohama municipal authority to raise awareness of heat stroke, delivered "heat stroke prevention” postcards to the public in cooperation with local businesses, the post office, and the fire departments. This has utilized the Kamome-Town service which distributes "Kamomail (Summer greeting cards)" issued by Japan Post Co., Ltd. to specified areas without being individually addressed. The postcards have sponsor advertisements on the front, and there is information on how to avoid heat stroke and contact details of first-aid facilities on the back of the card (fig.). The delivery area is designated by the sponsoring company. This direct mail has been sent out annually since 2016, and in 2018, 184 sponsoring companies contributed to the project by covering incurred costs.
Outputs / Expected benefits
It is expected that information will be more reliably conveyed, and awareness of heat stroke issues will be raised by direct mail to all Yokohama residents.