The Japan Meteorological Agency reported on July 1, 2026, that the national average temperature for the summer of 2026 (June through August) was 1.02 degrees Celsius above normal. ^[1] The summer of 2026 was recorded as the fifth hottest summer since statistical records began in 1898. ^[2] Record-breaking heatwaves occurred in Western Japan from mid-July to early August 2026. ^[3] The Japan Meteorological Agency attributed the heatwave to the westerlies shifting northward, trapping hot air over wide areas, and the formation of thick high-pressure columns. ^[4] As of late last month, 1,202 evacuees were staying in 204 hotels across Kumamoto Prefecture due to the earthquake. ^[5] Kumamoto City has been providing free meals to 47 citizens staying in 18 hotels since last month using its own budget. ^[6] Kumamoto Prefecture supports accommodation costs of up to 15,000 yen per night but requires evacuees to pay for all food costs themselves. ^[7] Disaster prevention experts stated that cost and personnel shortages cannot be valid reasons and urged the prefecture to negotiate with the central government to secure food budgets. ^[8]